Members of Don Juan’s Household and the Politics of Carlos II’s Court during the Early Years of his Minority (1665–1669)

Abstract

The illegitimate son of Philip IV, don Juan José of Austria (1629–1679), sought a permanent political position in the court of his younger brother, Carlos II, and the new regime now led by the King’s mother, Queen Mariana of Austria. Kept at bay during the first two years of the reign, the War of Devolution (1667–1668) opened the door for his appointment as governor of the Spanish Netherlands, which he accepted at first. His eventual refusal to take over the governorship precipitated the Queen’s order for his arrest and a dangerous period for don Juan. This article examines the role of members of don Juan’s household at the beginning of the reign, during his appointment to the governorship, and during his escape through Aragon. Members of don Juan’s household played a critical role during the first years of Carlos II’s reign, including the convoluted events that culminated with the confrontation between don Juan and the Queen in 1669.