War of Spanish Succession

Background

When Charles II of Spain died in 1700 without a direct successor, there were several potential heirs. Depending on who was to inherit the throne, power and influence in Europe would shift. The diplomatic situation was deadlocked, so that after Charles' unexpected death a war seemed to be unavoidable. Armed conflicts in this war began in 1701 and lasted till 1714. It took place in wide parts of western Europe.