Duke of Lerma

Type Figure Region Spain Time 1553–1625 Also known as Francisco Gómez de Sandoval

The Duke of Lerma (1553–1625) was a Spanish politician of Castilian noble birth, chief minister (valido) to Philip III from 1598 until his forced ret…

Timeline

1570–1590Segovia · CastileOf distinguished noble birth, he entered the court early and, through marriage alliances and diplomatic skill, gradually drew close to the royal core, becoming a trusted attendant of the crown prince Philip.
1591–1598Madrid · SpainHis influence grew in Philip II's later years; he took part in succession arrangements and cemented his trust with Prince Philip of Asturias, laying the foundation for his later hold on power.
1598–1618Madrid · SpainOn Philip III's accession he was appointed chief minister, directing peace settlements with France and England and withdrawing troops from the Netherlands; meanwhile he amassed a vast fortune through the sale of offices and land accumulation, provoking criticism at court and beyond.

Sources

Francisco Gómez de Sandoval y Rojas, duke de Lerma - Encyclopaedia Britannica https://www.britannica.com/biography/Francisco-Gomez-de-Sandoval-y-Rojas-duke-de-Lerma
The Count-Duke of Olivares: The Statesman in an Age of Decline — J. H. Elliott (1986)