Carlos de Aragón de Gurrea, 9th Duke of Villahermosa facts for kids
Carlos de Aragón de Gurrea y de Borja (born August 18, 1634 – died April 14, 1692) was an important Spanish nobleman. He held powerful positions as a viceroy and governor. He was also the 9th Duke of Villahermosa.
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Serving as Governor of the Spanish Netherlands
Carlos de Aragón de Gurrea y de Borja was the Governor of the Spanish Netherlands from 1675 to 1677. During this time, Spain did not have much control over the southern parts of the Netherlands.
Battles and Reinforcements
Two other countries, France and the Dutch Republic, fought a big battle called the Battle of Cassel (1677) in this area. Spain, under Carlos, could not do much to stop them or help. Around 1677, he received some extra soldiers. These soldiers were a military group called the Tercio of Valladares. They were sent by Gaspar Téllez-Girón, 5th Duke of Osuna, who was the Spanish Governor of Milan.
Changes in Leadership
Soon after, Carlos was replaced as governor. Alessandro Farnese, Prince of Parma took over his role. Farnese was the Governor of the Spanish Netherlands from 1678 to 1682.
Supporting Military Education
Even with the challenges, Carlos de Aragón de Gurrea y de Borja helped improve the Brussels Military Academy. This school trained future military leaders. It was led by Sebastián Fernández de Medrano. One of the students there was a very skilled engineer named Prospero Jorge de Verboom.
Other Important Roles and Honors
In 1678, Carlos de Gurrea Aragon y Borja received a special honor. He became a knight in the Order of the Golden Fleece. This was a very important award given to powerful people.
Viceroy of Catalonia
Later, he was chosen to be the Viceroy of Catalonia. He held this position from 1688 to 1690. A viceroy was like a ruler who governed a region in the name of the king.
Personal Life
Carlos de Aragón de Gurrea y de Borja married Maria Enriquez de Guzman y Cordova in 1656. She passed away in 1695. They did not have any children. Carlos himself died two years after his time as Viceroy of Catalonia, in 1692.
