Portuguese monarch Ferdinand, following the death of Henry II of Castile in 1379, had renewed his alliance with England, whose forces had joined those of Ferdinand in a 1381 invasion of Castile.

This war having proved disastrous for Ferdinand, he concludes a peace at Badajoz in August, 1382.

The question of the marriage of his only surviving child, Princess Beatrice, is the major political issue of the day, since it will determine the future of the kingdom.

Several political factions lobby for possible husbands, which include English and French princes.

The king, who is dying, finally settles for his wife's first choice, King John I of Castile, thus to secure the ultimate union of the crowns.