Uncover the truth behind Philip IV’s reign: was it Spain’s decline or a period of ‘Rey Planeta’ power? Alexander W Samson meticulously examines 17th-century Spain, dissecting the intricate world shaped by this influential monarch. This in-depth study offers crucial insights into the Habsburg dynasty’s challenges, cultural impact, and the broader dynamics of European monarchy. An essential read for students of European history and scholars of imperial Spain looking for authoritative analysis.