The Bourbons: Sons of Saint Louis in France, Spain and Italy

A comprehensive, transnational history of the Bourbons and their European legacy The Bourbon dynasty is one of Europe’s most enduring and influential royal families. This comprehensive history traces the Bourbons from their medieval origins to the twenty-first century, weaving together the lives of famous figures such as Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette with lesser-known princes, princesses and even illegitimate offspring. Stretching across France, Spain and Italy, the narrative highlights how a medieval king, Louis ix, inspired a dynastic identity that would shape European politics for centuries. Beyond individual biographies, Jonathan Spangler situates the dynasty within the broader political culture of early modern and modern Europe – from the War of the Spanish Succession to the French Revolution and the Italian Risorgimento – offering a richly textured account of power, family and legacy across generations.