Quick Facts
Iron Duke" Espartero: Ruled Spain, shaped Isabella II's reign.
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Life Journey
Baldomero Espartero was born in Granátula de Calatrava, a small town in the province of Ciudad Real, Spain.
At the age of 16, Espartero joins the Spanish Army to fight against the French during the Peninsular War.
Espartero distinguishes himself in battle against the French, earning recognition for his bravery and leadership.
After the war, Espartero returns to civilian life but remains active in the military reserves.
Espartero marries María Cristina de Castellví, a noblewoman from Valencia, solidifying his social and political connections.
Amid political instability, Espartero re-enlists in the Spanish Army and is promoted to captain.
Espartero is promoted to the rank of general, marking a significant milestone in his military career.
Espartero plays a crucial role in the First Carlist War, leading the liberal forces against the Carlists.
Espartero is appointed Governor of Cuba, where he implements various reforms and suppresses local uprisings.
After a brief tenure in Cuba, Espartero returns to Spain to continue his military and political career.
Espartero signs the Convention of Vergara, effectively ending the First Carlist War and bringing peace to Spain.
Espartero is appointed Regent of Spain, governing on behalf of the young Queen Isabella II.
Espartero is overthrown in a coup led by General Ramón Narváez, and he goes into exile in England.
Espartero returns to Spain and resumes his role in politics, though with less influence than before.
Espartero briefly serves as Prime Minister of Spain during the Biennio Progresista, a period of liberal reforms.
Baldomero Espartero dies at his residence in Logroño, aged 86, leaving a legacy as a key figure in 19th-century Spanish politics.