Philip V of Spain and the negotiations of the Treaties of Utrecht: Under the dictates of ‘the World’s Best Grandfather’

Abstract

Historiography has traditionally emphasized the representation of the Spanish interests by Louis XIV of France in the talks that led to the Treaties of Utrecht (1713). In order to explore this issue, this contribution examines Philip V’s attitude during the negotiations. For this, an excellent documentary basis is the instructions that the Spanish king gave to his ambassadors, the correspondence that he exchanged with Louis XIV and finally the testimonies of other protagonists. This allows us to show the complexity of the negotiations, clarify the relationship between the two kings –not without tension– and, ultimately, to explain Philip V’s ambitions and frustrations under the constant dictates of his grandfather, the King of France.