Philip IV

Full Name: Philip IV of Spain, sometimes called the Planet King
Profession: King of Spain and Portugal

Nationality:

Biography: Philip IV was the eldest son of Phillip III and his wife Margaret of Austria. He came to power as the King of Spain and Portugal and Lord of the Netherlands in 1621, at the age of 15. He was to hold two of these titles for over 40 years, though he lost Portugal which achieved independence under John IV in 1640.

While the Spanish Empire nevertheless reached its furthest geographic bounds under Phillip IV, his reign seemed to mark a turning point in which Spain would thereafter decline. He is, however, renowned as a patron of the arts, in particular for his relationship with Diego Velázquez.

Under Phillip IV, the Spanish Empire would participate in the Thirty Years' War. This was one of the bloodiest conflicts in European history, resulting in an estimated death-toll of between 4 and 8 million civilians and soldiers.

Born: April 8, 1605
Birthplace: Royal Palace of Valladolid, Valladolid, Spain
Star Sign: Aries

Died: September 17, 1665 (aged 60)