18th Century Spanish Bourbons: Rise and Reforms
18th Century Spain: Dynastic Change and Early Bourbons
Felipe V (1701-1746)
A man of wavering stability and ill health, Philip V initially struggled with the responsibilities of governing Spain. Often indecisive, he relied heavily on his advisors. During the War of Succession, French administrators largely dictated policy. This alienated the Spanish aristocracy, as the administration favored professional bureaucrats.
In 1714, following the death of his first wife, Philip married Elisabeth Farnese. The strong-willed new queen drastically altered the court, imposing her own political agenda. Obsessed with securing Italian territories for her children, she prioritized an aggressive foreign policy, often at the expense of Spanish interests.
Under Elisabeth’s influence, Italian advisors, notably Cardinal Alberoni, gained prominence. Alberoni directed military campaigns in Italy, but Spanish aggression provoked a European coalition, forcing their retreat and Alberoni’s dismissal in 1724.
Following a depressive episode, Philip abdicated in favor of his eldest son, Louis I. Louis’s reign was short-lived; he contracted smallpox and died in August of the same year. Elisabeth then persuaded Philip to reclaim the throne.
The aristocracy’s disapproval of the royal policies grew, and factions within the bureaucracy began to align with the Prince of Asturias, Fernando, forming an opposition group around 1726. José Patiño, a key figure in this group, initiated an ambitious rearmament program. This led to the conquest of Naples and Sicily in 1734, which were given to Charles, Philip and Elisabeth’s eldest son. Patiño also reoriented foreign policy, seeking an alliance with France.
The final years of Philip’s reign saw continued war with England and escalating expenses.
Fernando VI (1746-1759)
Like his father, Fernando VI suffered from poor health. The Marquis de la Ensenada (Zenón de Somodevilla) effectively governed, holding multiple key positions.
Ensenada’s political program aimed to strengthen the absolute monarchy through economic growth and modernization, making Spain competitive with the rest of Europe. He also prioritized the defense and expansion of the colonial empire, advocating for a stronger navy.
Following the war with England in 1748, Spain experienced a long period of peace. This allowed Ensenada to pursue his domestic reforms. His primary focus was tax reform, aiming to replace the complex existing system with a single tax on property and income, including the privileged classes. The Catastro de Ensenada, a comprehensive survey of the nation’s wealth, was undertaken. However, pressure from the privileged classes ultimately led to the abandonment of the project.
Despite this setback, tax revenues increased. Taxes from the colonies were recovered, the sale of crown property was prohibited, and the church’s contributions were increased. Fernando VI’s government also implemented positive economic measures, such as abolishing internal grain trade taxes and liberalizing colonial trade.
The most significant achievement was the strengthening of the navy. The goal was to create a fleet capable of defending the colonies and potentially supporting France in a war against England. Shipyards and factories increased production, and the number of sailors grew.
Ironically, it was this naval buildup that led to Ensenada’s downfall. A pro-British faction at court convinced the king to dismiss him in 1754. The new, more conservative administration halted Ensenada’s reforms. Nevertheless, the reign of Fernando VI concluded on a positive note, with improved domestic prosperity and increased military strength.