The Austrian Nephews : The Offspring of Maximilian II and Maria of Austria at the Service of the Spanish King

Abstract

The simultaneous unity and division into several branches of the House of Austria offered a challenging situation in the case of the fifteen sons and daughters of Emperor Maximilian II (1527–76) and his wife — and cousin — Maria of Austria (1528–1603). As nephews of King Philip II of Spain, even as his possible heirs, these children enjoyed his powerful uncle’s protection and acknowledged the Spanish legacy of the dynasty. By analysing their different education, role-holding and circulation within Europe, we reflect on how these individuals were pivotal to spread Philip II’s interests and how dynastic formation intertwined with national constructions.