Ascension to the Throne
Carlos IV ascended to the throne of Spain on December 14, 1788, after the death of his father, Charles III. His reign, known as the reinado de carlos IV de españa, began amidst hopes for reform and modernization in Spain.
Influence of Manuel Godoy
In 1792, Manuel Godoy became the chief minister and gained considerable influence over Carlos IV. Godoy's policies and favoritism led to both domestic and foreign challenges during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
War with Revolutionary France
Spain entered the War against Revolutionary France in 1793, aligning with Austria and Britain. This conflict strained resources and public support for the monarchy during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Treaty of Basel
The Treaty of Basel was signed in 1795, ending hostilities with France. Spain ceded Louisiana to France, marking a significant territorial loss during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Treaty of San Ildefonso
In 1800, the Treaty of San Ildefonso was signed, which re-established the alliance between Spain and France. This alliance was crucial for Carlos IV’s foreign policy during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Battle of Trafalgar
The Battle of Trafalgar occurred in 1805, resulting in a decisive British victory over the combined Spanish and French fleets. This loss highlighted the decline of Spanish naval power during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
French Invasion of Portugal
In 1807, French troops invaded Portugal, which was allied with Britain. Carlos IV supported Napoleon’s actions, further complicating Spain's position in Europe during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Abdication and the Peninsular War
In March 1808, under pressure from Napoleon, Carlos IV abdicated in favor of his son, Ferdinand VII. This event marked the beginning of the Peninsular War, significantly impacting Spain during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
The Dos de Mayo Uprising
On May 2, 1808, the Dos de Mayo Uprising occurred in Madrid against French occupation. This revolt signaled widespread resistance to foreign domination during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Formation of the Junta Central
In 1808, the Junta Central was formed as a response to the French invasion, aiming to govern Spain in the absence of a monarch. This marked a significant shift in political power during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Cortes of Cadiz and the Constitution of 1812
The Cortes of Cadiz convened in 1810, leading to the drafting of the Constitution of 1812, which established liberal principles. This was a direct response to the issues faced during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Restoration of Ferdinand VII
In 1814, Ferdinand VII was restored to the throne after the defeat of Napoleon. The restoration marked the end of the reinado de carlos IV de españa and a return to conservative rule, reversing many reforms.
Liberal Revolution and the Trienio Liberal
In 1820, a liberal revolution led to the establishment of a constitutional government for three years, known as the Trienio Liberal. This period reflected the lasting impact of the political changes initiated during the reinado de carlos IV de españa.
Death of Carlos IV’s Legacy
Carlos IV died in 1819, but his legacy continued to influence Spain's political landscape. The conflicts and reforms initiated during the reinado de carlos IV de españa set the stage for future struggles between conservatives and liberals.
