Charles II of Spain

Charles II of Spain (1661-1700) was the last Habsburg king of Spain, known for his physical and mental health issues, often attributed to extensive inbreeding in his royal lineage. His reign was marked by economic decline, military defeats, and political instability. Charles struggled to produce an heir, leading to a succession crisis upon his death. This initiated the War of the Spanish Succession, a major conflict in Europe over who would inherit the Spanish throne, ultimately reshaping the power dynamics of the continent. His reign symbolizes the decline of Habsburg influence in European affairs.