Queen, Mother, and Stateswoman

Queen, Mother, and Stateswoman volume 1 is a revisionist history and biography that examines the political leadership of Queen Regent Mariana of Austria. Following the death of Philip IV in 1665, Mariana navigated a dynastic crisis and national bankruptcy to lead the global Spanish Empire. This work of 17th century European history highlights her ten-year regency and her subsequent influence as queen mother, focusing on her ability to stabilize the monarchy and reshape diplomatic blocs in favor of Spain.

Drawing from primary sources and royal correspondence, the text analyzes the legitimacy of women's political power in early modern Spain. It provides a detailed account of Mariana's strategic maneuvers, including her return to power through marriage negotiations for her son, Carlos II. This scholarly biography serves as a significant resource for those studying royalty, women's studies, and the political landscape of Western Europe.