The project, following the path of the previous one (The Foreign Policy of Philip V), aims to analyze from different angles the complex relationship between the two Bourbon monarchies between 1701 and 1733 beyond the interpretation in key of diplomatic relations that has predominated until today. While it is true that they shared dynastic interests, tensions soon arose in relation to the system of government of the Hispanic monarchy, international politics and trade, especially American trade. In fact, the reforms introduced by the French team (J. Orry, M. Amelot, the Princess of the Ursinos) provoked important counter-reactions and fed the emergence of a Spanish party that gained strength at certain critical moments. Significantly, the subordination to France in the peace negotiations (1709-1710) generated discontent at the Spanish court (among King Philip V and Queen Marie-Louise of Savoy as well as among various ministers and prominent members of the nobility). Of course, the defense of the Spanish commercial interests against the French merchants constituted another key factor in that scenario not exempt of tensions, of which the French ambassadors and consuls as well as the public report.

 

Certainly, the interests of the respective monarchs (Louis XIV, the regent Duke of Orleans and Louis XV on the French side and Philip V on the Spanish side) as well as those of their respective governments ended up colliding until the break in the Quadruple Alliance War and, again, following the peace of Vienna (1725) to later rehabilitate the alliance in the two family pacts (1733, 1743).

 

The aim of this project is to analyze the evolution of the relations between both monarchies during the decisive period of consolidation of the Bourbons in Spain and of the European balance (between 1701 and 1733), focusing on both critical moments and on the reunions facilitated by new alliances. In short, we intend to precisely define the changing political relationship between both monarchies according to national interests, as opposed to the dynastic ones, throughout the period studied and taking into account the evolution of public opinion in Spain in relation to the dynastic alliance.

 

We propose an ambitious research program by the group that will be supported in specific matters by various collaborators both Spanish and French, whose contribution is detailed in the work plan. The project brings together young historians and researchers who have a relevant volume of publications that prove their mastery of the subject.