The Count-Duke of Olivares

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Don Gaspar de Guzmán, Count-Duke of Olivares (1587-1645), was the chief minister and favorite of Philip IV of Spain, guiding the nation during a pivotal period marked by the Thirty Years' War. His tenure was characterized by efforts to maintain Spanish dominance amid perceptions of decline and the erosion of traditional power structures. The narrative of his political career unfolds as an epic struggle against this decline, culminating in personal tragedy and national disaster. His rivalry with Cardinal Richelieu of France ultimately led to Spain's diminished status as the leading European power. Despite his significant historical impact, previous studies have not thoroughly examined his political ambitions and statesmanship due to the scale of the task and challenges in sourcing documentation. This comprehensive biography addresses that gap, weaving together Olivares's domestic and foreign policies into a cohesive narrative. Drawing primarily from previously unknown sources, it offers insights into Spain and Europe during the 1620s and 1630s, while also delving into Olivares's complex personality. This elegantly crafted work is a landmark study that will appeal to both specialists and general readers alike.