Mercurio López Pacheco, 9th Duke of Escalona facts for kids
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Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco
9th Duke of Escalona
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Portrait at the Real Academia Española, 1757
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| Born |
Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco y Portugal Acuña Manrique Silva Girón y Portocarrero
9 May 1679 |
| Died | 7 June 1738 (aged 59) Madrid, Spain
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| Seat Q of the Real Academia Española | |
| In office 15 April 1714 – 7 June 1738 |
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| Preceded by | Seat established |
| Succeeded by | Juan López Pacheco |
| Director of the Real Academia Española | |
| In office 29 June 1725 – 7 June 1738 |
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| Preceded by | Juan Manuel Fernández Pacheco |
| Succeeded by | Andrés Fernández Pacheco |
Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco (born May 9, 1679, in Escalona, Spain – died June 7, 1738, in Madrid, Spain) was an important Spanish nobleman and scholar. He held many impressive titles, including the 9th Duke of Escalona and 9th Marquis of Villena. He was also known as a Grandee of Spain, which was a very high rank for a nobleman.
Mercurio Antonio followed in his father's footsteps. His father, Juan Manuel Fernández Pacheco, was the first Director of the Royal Spanish Academy. Mercurio Antonio himself became the second lifetime Director of this important institution, serving from 1725 until his death in 1738.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco was born into a powerful and noble family. His full name was Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco y Portugal Acuña Manrique Silva Girón y Portocarrero. This long name showed his connections to many important families in Spain.
His father, Juan Manuel Fernández Pacheco, was the 8th Duke of Escalona. The Duke of Escalona was a very respected title in Spain. Being born into such a family meant Mercurio Antonio had a life of privilege and responsibility.
Role in the Royal Spanish Academy
The Royal Spanish Academy (Real Academia Española) is a very important organization in Spain. It was founded in 1713 to protect and regulate the Spanish language. Think of it like a guardian for the Spanish language, making sure it stays clear and correct.
Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco became a member of this Academy in 1714. Later, in 1725, he was chosen to be its Director. This was a huge honor, as he was only the second person to hold this position. He led the Academy for 13 years, helping to shape the Spanish language during his time.
Service to the King
Besides his work with the Royal Spanish Academy, Mercurio Antonio also served the King of Spain. In 1724, he was given a very special award: he became a Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece. This was one of the most exclusive and respected orders of knighthood in Europe. It showed that the King trusted and valued him greatly.
From 1725 until his death, he held the position of Mayordomo mayor. This role meant he was the chief of the King's Royal Household. He was in charge of managing the King's personal affairs and the royal palace. This was a very powerful and trusted position, showing his close relationship with the King.
Legacy
Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco passed away on June 7, 1738, in Madrid. He is remembered for his dedication to the Spanish language through his leadership at the Royal Spanish Academy. He also played a significant role in the King's court, serving as a trusted advisor and manager. His life showed the importance of noble families in Spanish society and their contributions to culture and government.
See also
In Spanish: Mercurio Antonio López Pacheco para niños
