Fernando de Toledo facts for kids

Fernando de Toledo (born around 1528, died 1591) was an important Spanish nobleman. He was the first son of Don Fernando Álvarez de Toledo, 3rd Duke of Alba, who was also known as "The Iron Duke." Fernando's mother was a miller's daughter from a town called La Aldehuela in Spain.

Early Life and Family

For many years, Fernando's father, the Duke, did not officially recognize him as his son. It wasn't until 1546, when Fernando was 19 years old, that the Duke finally accepted him. This story later became the subject of a funny play by a famous Spanish writer named Félix Lope de Vega y Carpio. The play's title, "Más mal hay en La Aldegüela de lo que sueña," means something like, "There are worse things in Aldehuela than you have dreamt of."

Important Roles and Career

Fernando de Toledo held many important positions during his life. He was a prior (a leader) in the Sovereign Military Order of Malta in Castile and León. This was a very old and respected group of knights.

He also served as the Captain General of the cavalry (horse soldiers) in Flanders and Portugal. This meant he was in charge of many soldiers. Fernando was also a member of the Council of State, which was a group of advisors to the king.

From 1571 to 1580, Fernando de Toledo became the Viceroy of Catalonia. A viceroy was like a governor who ruled a region on behalf of the king. He took over this important job from Diego Hurtado de Mendoza y de la Cerda.

See also

In Spanish: Fernando de Toledo para niños