Spain’s Renewed Effort Against Portugal and the Strain of War (1650s)
By the 1650s, Spain was once again preparing to direct its military efforts against Portugal, having secured peace in Europe with the Treaty of Westphalia (1648) and ended the Reapers’ War in Catalonia (1652). However, despite its ambitions to reclaim Portugal, Spain faced severe limitations in manpower, resources, and effective military leadership.
The Financial and Military Burden on Spain
- The war against Portugal was proving exceptionally costly:
- Between 1649 and 1654, over six million ducats—about 29% of Spain’s total defense spending—was directed toward fighting Portugal.
- By the 1650s, Spain maintained over 20,000 troops in Extremadura alone, nearly matching the 27,000 troops stationed in Flanders, a region that had long been Spain’s military priority.
- Despite these efforts, Spain struggled with:
- Recruitment shortages—its armies were spread too thin.
- Economic hardship—Spain’s declining control over trade weakened its ability to sustain prolonged warfare.
- Ineffective leadership—many of Spain’s most competent commanders were no longer available, forcing the reliance on less experienced generals.
Portugal’s Financial and Military Advantages
While Spain struggled, Portugal was able to sustain its war effort, largely due to:
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Revenue from Colonial Trade
- Taxation of the spice trade from Asia and sugar exports from Brazil provided Portugal with a stable wartime income.
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Support from Spain’s European Rivals
- Portugal benefited from assistance from Holland, France, and England, all of whom sought to weaken Spanish power.
- The Dutch provided naval support to defend Portugal’s overseas empire, particularly in Brazil and Africa.
- French and English backing helped maintain Portugal’s land defenses in Europe.
Conclusion: Spain’s Overextension and Portugal’s Growing Strength
By the 1650s, Spain’s inability to effectively suppress Portugal became increasingly clear. The war drained Spanish resources, while Portugal, backed by its trade revenues and foreign alliances, remained resilient. The cost of reconquering Portugal ultimately proved too high for Spain, paving the way for Portugal’s final victory and the official recognition of its independence in 1668.
