Episode 125 - The three Alfonsos

The podcast episode delves into the political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula in 1327, marked by the rule of three kings named Alfonso in Aragon, Castile, and Portugal, alongside Muhammad IV in Granada. Despite being the youngest, Alfonso of Castile harbored ambitions to make Castile the most powerful kingdom and extend its influence abroad, similar to Aragon. To secure his position, he strategically dealt with powerful noblemen, including Juan Manuel and Juan de Haro. Alfonso of Castile betrothed himself to Juan Manuel's young daughter, Constanza, to undermine their alliance, and later had Juan de Haro assassinated due to his opposition. After confrontations with Juan Manuel, Alfonso annulled the union with Constanza, leading Juan Manuel to seek support from Alfonso of Aragon against Castile.