Ferdinand, Duke of Calabria facts for kids
Ferdinand, Duke of Calabria (born December 15, 1488 – died October 20, 1550) was an important prince from Naples. He played a big part in the politics of the Crown of Aragon in the Mediterranean Sea during the early 1500s.
Contents
Early Life and Royal Connections
Ferdinand was born in Andria, a city in Apulia, Italy. His father was King Frederick IV of Naples, and his mother was Isabella del Balzo. Ferdinand held the titles of Duke of Calabria and Duke of Apulia.
At this time, the kingdoms of Naples and Sicily were very important. Different powerful families wanted to control them.
Changes in Power in Naples
In 1501, a strong alliance was formed. Louis XII of France and Ferdinand II of Aragon joined forces. King Louis claimed the thrones of Naples and Sicily. This claim had started with an earlier French king, Charles VIII.
The alliance worked together to remove Frederick, Ferdinand's father, from power. At first, Naples went to King Louis of France. However, a new war broke out in 1504. This war led to Ferdinand of Aragon taking control of Naples.
Life as a Prisoner and Viceroy
After his father was removed, Ferdinand was taken prisoner. He was captured by Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba, a Spanish general. Ferdinand was then moved to Barcelona, Spain, where he was held as a hostage.
Despite being a prisoner, Ferdinand became friends with the King of Aragon. Later, he also became friends with the king's grandson, Charles. Charles would become a very powerful emperor.
Marriage and Role in Valencia
In 1526, Emperor Charles arranged for Ferdinand to marry. He married Germaine of Foix, who was Charles's step-grandmother. She was also the widow of Ferdinand of Aragon.
In 1537, Emperor Charles gave Ferdinand and Germaine an important job. He made them joint viceroys of the Kingdom of Valencia. A viceroy is like a governor who rules a region in the name of the king or queen. They managed Valencia together.
Later Life and Patronage
Queen Germaine passed away on October 15, 1536. A few years later, in 1541, Ferdinand married again. His second wife was Mencía de Mendoza, a well-educated widow.
Ferdinand and Mencía were known for supporting artists and writers. They helped many people create beautiful works of art and literature. This support is called patronage. They made their home a center for culture and learning.
See also
In Spanish: Fernando de Aragón, duque de Calabria para niños
- Kingdom of Sicily
- Kingdom of Naples
- Kingdom of Valencia
- History of Italy
