Afonso V’s Strategic Shift: Consolidating Control in Toro (1475)

After marching from Plasencia to Arévalo in May 1475, Afonso V of Portugal encountered less Castilian support than he had anticipated in his campaign for the Castilian throne. Realizing that his position in Castile was weaker than expected, he abandoned his plan to march toward Burgos and instead focused on securing areas closer to Portugal.

Strategic Decision: The Shift to Toro

• Instead of advancing further into Castile, Afonso V redirected his efforts toward consolidating control over Toro, a key city near the Portuguese border.
• Toro received Afonso favorably, offering him a strong base of operations.
• However, while the city welcomed him, the castle garrison remained loyal to Isabella, highlighting the deep divisions within Castile.

Why Toro Was a Strategic Choice

1. Proximity to Portugal

   • Securing Toro allowed Afonso to maintain supply lines from Portugal and ensure he could retreat if necessary.

2. Symbolic and Political Importance

   • Toro was a historically significant Castilian city and had a strong noble presence.
   • By holding Toro, Afonso could demonstrate legitimacy and encourage more Castilian nobles to join his cause.

3. Tactical Positioning Against Isabella

   • Controlling Toro allowed Afonso to prepare for battle, as Isabella and Ferdinand were mobilizing their forces.

Consequences of Afonso’s Decision

• Afonso’s failure to push further into Castile weakened his overall campaign.
• The decision to focus on Toro led to the Battle of Toro (1476), a crucial and inconclusive battle in which both sides claimed victory.
• Although Afonso held Toro after the battle, Isabella’s political position grew stronger, leading to her eventual recognition as Queen of Castile.

Conclusion: Afonso’s Missed Opportunity

• Afonso’s reliance on Portuguese forces and lack of widespread Castilian support made his campaign difficult.
• By failing to secure Burgos and northern Castile, he lost the chance to challenge Isabella more effectively.
• His retreat to Toro set the stage for the eventual collapse of his claim to the Castilian throne, culminating in the Treaty of Alcáçovas (1479), which confirmed Isabella’s rule and Portugal’s dominance in the Atlantic.