Fernando Girón de Salcedo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Don
Fernando Girón de Salcedo y Briviesca
Primer Marqués de Sofraga
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Don Fernando is seated, because his gout prevented him from standing.
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| Born | 1562 Talavera de la Reina, Castile |
| Died | September 6, 1630 Talavera de la Reina |
| Allegiance |  Spanish Empire |
| Spouse(s) | single |
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Don Fernando Girón de Salcedo y Briviesca was an important Spanish nobleman. He was born in 1562 and passed away in 1630. He was known as the First Marquis of Sofraga.
Don Fernando held many important roles. He was part of the Council of War for Flanders, which helped manage military actions. He also served as a top military leader, called a Maestre de Campo General, in Aragon. He was in charge of the Aljafería de Zaragoza, a famous palace and fortress.
He was also a Grand Chancellor and Bailiff for the Order of Knights of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem. This was a religious and military order. He was a special assistant, a Gentleman of the Privy Chamber, to two kings: King Philip III and King Philip IV.
One of his most famous achievements was successfully defending the city of Cádiz from an English attack in 1625. This brave act made him famous. He was even shown in a painting by the artist Francisco de Zurbarán, called The Defence of Cadiz against the English.
Contents
Early Life and Military Service
Don Fernando Girón came from an important family. His father was Sancho Hurtado Girón de Salcedo, Lord of Casalegas. His mother was Juana de Bribiesca. Both families had a long history of serving as regidors, or town council members, in Talavera de la Reina.
Fernando began his career as a captain in the Army of Flanders. This was a Spanish army that fought in the Low Countries. Later, he became a maestro de campo (a type of general) for the Spanish navy. He was also the castellan (commander) of Jaca in Aragon.
Important Roles and Achievements
In 1608, Don Fernando joined the supreme council of war. This council made important decisions about military matters. From 1618 to 1620, he served as an ambassador to France. This meant he represented Spain in another country.
After returning from France, Don Fernando continued his work as a war counselor. In 1622, he became a member of the Spanish Council of State. This was a very high-level group that advised the king.
His most famous moment came in 1625. As a governor, he successfully led the defense of Cádiz against an English attack. This victory was very important for Spain. Because of his great service, King Philip IV made him the first marquess of Sofraga in 1626. This was a special title given for his loyalty and help to the kingdom.
Later Life and Legacy
In 1626, King Philip IV offered Don Fernando two more important jobs. He was asked to be the governor-general of the Duchy of Milan and the viceroy (a ruler acting for the king) of Navarra in 1629. However, Don Fernando was not well. He had to turn down these honors because of his illness.
He decided to retire to his hometown, Talavera de la Reina. He passed away there in 1630. Don Fernando was buried in the burial chapel of the Collegiate Church of Santa María in Talavera de la Reina.
Since he never married or had children, his title of Marquis de Sofraga went to his nephew, Sancho Girón.
See also
In Spanish: Fernando Girón de Salcedo y Briviesca para niños
