Royal Favouritism and the Governing Elite of the Spanish Monarchy, 1640-1665

A chronological and thematic analysis of the Spanish government during the mid-seventeenth century, focussing on Philip IV's bestowal of favour on his favourite, don Luis Mendez de Haro. Alistair Malcolm shows the insecurity of Haro's position as he sought to justify his regime by managing a prestigious and expensive foreign policy.