Manuel de Godoy

Manuel de Godoy (1767-1851) was a Spanish politician and military leader who served as Prime Minister of Spain during a tumultuous period in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He was known for his close ties to the Spanish crown, particularly Queen Maria Luisa, and held significant power despite being a controversial figure. Godoy pursued reforms and modernizations but faced criticism for corruption and inefficiency. His tenure ended with the Peninsular War (1808-1814), during which Spain was invaded by Napoleon. He was eventually exiled but remained an influential figure in Spanish history.