Entry from Spanish Rulers (1589-1715)

King Philip III (1598-1622)
April 1618
I suppose it is true, what my father said. I have not the edge to rule. I am far more concerned with true virtues rather than the cold ways of politics. I am now surely nearing the end of my days, and looking back on my reign, it appears that I could do no more for my country than I have. I suppose the festivities in which I participated, which were rather expensive and lavish, could have been toned down a bit in order to keep money in the treasury, but as I said, none of these political thoughts were ever in my head. Yes, it is far better that I entrusted my royal duties into the hands of the Duke of Lerma, and now his son, the Duke of Uceda. After all, it is not my fault that I, a soft-hearted man, was born to the great dynasty of the Habsburgs. Ah, well, buenos noches.


King Philip IV (1622-1665)
December 1664
All is in despair. I feel as if I have failed my country. It was my every intention to honor the Roman Catholic Church and the Habsburgs in everything I have done. Yet it appears that I entrusted too much power in Olivares, my advisor, at the beginning of my reign. How can I possibly be blamed for such an action, though, when I was only 16 years of age. Even though I did theoretically engulf myself in my passion for Baroque art, such as translating works and commissioning fine architecture, I tried my best to perserve the honor of Spain. I submerged us into war with the Dutch, which some call the beginning of the end. It is true, I suppose, that I have failed. My only hope is that my son may be able to do better than I for his country, the church, and the Habsburgs.


King Charles II (1665-1700)
June 1698
I cannot take much more criticism. People whisper about me. They call me mentally ill and disfigured. They assume I cannot hear them. I ardently proclaim that any flaw in myself is merely due to sorcery. I have tried to get the demons out! But apparently to no avail. It is evident that the masses believe that my handicaps contribute to my lack of leadership and good rule. They say Spain is declining, and I am the one to blame. What more can I do? I do feel terrible for certain injustices. I have even ordered the Junta Magna, which will be a report on and mishaps in the Spainsh Inquisition. We shall see how that proceeds. I cannot write much more, my hand is shaking and I simply can no longer think.

Last Habsburg King: Charles II