Diego Duque de Estrada facts for kids

Diego Duque de Estrada (born August 15, 1589, in Toledo, Spain – died around 1647) was a Spanish writer, soldier, and adventurer. He wrote a famous book about his life.

Diego was the son of a high-ranking soldier, Juan Duque de Estrada. He became an orphan at a very young age and was raised by his cousin. When he was young, he faced a difficult situation that led him to leave home. He had to flee and live a wandering life for a while.

A Life of Adventure

Diego traveled a lot in southern Spain. He was arrested in Écija and taken back to Toledo. He faced a very tough time in prison but managed to escape with some help. He then made his way to Naples, a city in Italy.

Serving the Duke of Osuna

In Naples, Diego joined the service of the Duke of Osuna, who was the viceroy (a ruler representing the king). This was a time when Spain was involved in many conflicts.

Fighting and Conspiracies

Diego saw a lot of action while serving the Duke. He fought against the Turks and the Venetians. He was even part of a secret plan against Venice. He and other Spanish soldiers were supposed to cause trouble in the city. However, they were warned that their plan had been discovered, so they managed to escape in time.

A Wandering Soldier

After the Duke of Osuna lost his power, Diego went back to his adventurous, wandering life. He served as a soldier in different places. He fought under Bethlen Gabor in Transylvania and also took part in the Thirty Years' War, a major conflict in Europe.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1633, Diego joined a religious order called San Juan de Dios. He is believed to have died sometime after 1637, possibly around 1647, in Sardinia. He is known to have helped defend Sardinia when the French attacked the island.

His Famous Memoirs

Diego Duque de Estrada left behind a book of memoirs. These are like a personal diary or autobiography. The book is called Comentarios de el desengenado de Si Mismo prueba de todos estados, y eleccíon del Mejor de ellos. This title means "The Commentaries of one who knew his own little worth, the touchstone of all the state of man, and the choice of the best."

His memoirs were written at different times, and some parts have been lost. While his writing style was not always perfect, his stories are incredibly vivid and exciting. They offer a wonderful look into what life was like for many people in Spain during his time. His memoirs were later reprinted by Don Pascual de Gayangos in a historical collection.

See also

In Spanish: Diego Duque de Estrada para niños