Baltasar de Zúñiga facts for kids

Roberto de Zúñiga y Velasco (1561 – October 1622) was an important Spanish leader. He was a trusted advisor to two kings, King Philip III and his son, King Philip IV. From 1618 to 1622, he managed Spain's relationships with other countries. He helped Spain join the Thirty Years War (1618–1648) successfully at first. Roberto de Zúñiga also helped his nephew, Olivares, become a powerful prime minister. He was one of the few royal advisors who remained popular until his death.

Roberto de Zúñiga's Early Life and Career

Roberto de Zúñiga came from a powerful noble family in Spain. He was a soldier and even survived the famous Spanish Armada in 1588. After that, he became a diplomat, representing Spain in other countries. He served as Spain's ambassador in Brussels (1599-1603), Paris (1603-1608), and Vienna (1608-1617).

At this time, King Philip III's government was led by the Duke of Lerma. Lerma was a royal favorite who spent a lot of money. Many nobles, including Lerma's own son, the Duke of Uceda, were unhappy with his spending.

Becoming a Key Advisor

When Roberto de Zúñiga returned to Madrid, he worked with Uceda. Their goal was to remove the Duke of Lerma from power. Lerma tried to protect himself by becoming a Cardinal. But in October 1618, one of Lerma's close friends was arrested. De Zúñiga and Uceda used this chance to act.

The Duke of Lerma was forced to leave his position and retire. Roberto de Zúñiga then became King Philip III's main advisor on foreign policy. He used his influence to help his nephew, Olivares. Olivares was given a position in the young Prince Philip's household.

When King Philip III died in 1621, de Zúñiga made another important move. He helped Olivares replace Uceda as the effective prime minister. This made sure his family had a strong influence in King Philip IV's court. Roberto de Zúñiga also became the King's chief attendant.

De Zúñiga did not get to enjoy his success for long. He passed away in October 1622. His nephew, Olivares, then became King Philip IV's most trusted advisor for the next twenty years.

Spain's Foreign Policy and Reforms

Roberto de Zúñiga was most interested in how Spain dealt with other countries. His experience as an ambassador across Europe was very helpful. He also played a key role in the changes that began under King Philip IV.

Restoring Spain's Power

De Zúñiga and Olivares wanted to make Spain as strong as it was under King Philip II. They believed Spain had declined under King Philip III, especially because of the Duke of Lerma. De Zúñiga supported the strict spending rules Olivares put in place during Philip IV's first two years.

Spain's Role in European Conflicts

Internationally, de Zúñiga believed Spain should have a strong alliance. He wanted Spain to work closely with the Holy Roman Empire. Both Spain and the Holy Roman Empire were ruled by the Habsburg family. He thought this alliance would make the Habsburg family powerful across Europe.

De Zúñiga convinced King Philip III to send help to the Emperor in Bohemia in 1619. This decision effectively brought Spain into the Thirty Years War (1618–48). In 1620, he was important in sending the Spanish army to help. This led to a Spanish victory at the Battle of White Mountain later that year.

De Zúñiga also made important decisions about the conflict in the Netherlands. A truce had been in place since 1609, but tensions were rising. De Zúñiga believed a quick military victory over the Dutch was unlikely. However, by 1619, he thought renewing the war could lead to a better peace treaty for Spain. He was largely responsible for the war starting again in 1621. As a result, the conflict continued for another 27 years until the peace treaty in 1648.

See also

In Spanish: Baltasar de Zúñiga y Velasco para niños

• History of Spain
• Thirty Years' War
• Eighty Years' War
• Philip IV of Spain
• Gaspar de Guzmán y Pimentel, Count-Duke of Olivares