Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor

Reign: 1706 – 1714
Life: 1685–1740

He unsuccessfully claimed the throne of Spain following the death of his relative Charles II of Spain. Four years before the birth of Maria Theresa, faced with his lack of male heirs, Charles provided for a male-line succession failure with the Pragmatic Sanction of 1713. Charles sought the other European powers' approval. In total, the states of Great Britain, France, Saxony-Poland, the Dutch Republic, Spain, Venice, the Papal States, Prussia, Russia, Denmark, Savoy-Sardinia, and Bavaria, plus the Diet of the Holy Roman Empire, recognised the sanction.

During Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor's reign, Louis XIV of France ruled France, Kangxi Emperor ruled China, and Frederick I of Prussia ruled Prussia.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Imperial Spain, 1469–1716 by J. H. Elliott

Some book links on this site point to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, WhoWasRuling.com may earn from qualifying purchases.

The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

Meanwhile in history

One “meanwhile in history” story each week: who ruled where, and what was happening on thrones across the world.

By subscribing you agree to receive emails from us. See our Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe any time.

From the library

Go deeper on Charles VI, Holy Roman Emperor

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Imperial Spain, 1469–1716

J. H. Elliott

Elliott's classic on the rise of the Spanish monarchy and its global empire.

Find this book on Amazon

A History of Medieval Spain
Joseph F. O'Callaghan
A clear survey of Iberian kings, caliphs, and Christian kingdoms before the union of Castile and Aragon.
Find on Amazon