Beschrijving
Engraving of Louis I of Spain.
Louis I of Spain was King of Spain from January to August 1724, one of the shortest reigns in Spanish history. He was the eldest son of Philip V of Spain and inherited the throne when his father unexpectedly abdicated, partly for personal and political reasons. At just 17 years old, Louis became the first Spanish-born monarch of the Bourbon dynasty.
His reign lasted only about seven months. In August 1724, Louis died of smallpox, leaving no surviving heirs. His death created a succession problem, and since his younger brothers were still minors, Philip V returned to the throne and resumed his rule. Although Louis I had little opportunity to shape Spanish policy, his brief reign remains a notable episode in the history of the Spanish monarchy and the Bourbon dynasty.
Engraving by B. Picart after Viali.
