Mechanisms and strategies for promotion, rise and consolidation of the Carrillo de Toledo, Lords of Caracena and Pinto

Abstract

Social mobility was a typical phenomenon in the estates system of the Modern Age, as it has already been shown repeatedly. Money was a key element in an attempt to get the coveted promotion as well as to seize opportunities for royal service that the Habsburg imperial machinery provided. In the political and social elevation process starred by the lords of Caracena and Pinto, the grant of the manor, the access to government local areas, the foundation of “mayorazgos”, the implementation of some successful marriage strategies, and finally, the performance of some of the most relevant administrative, governmental and military positions of the Spanish monarchy became milestones. Therefore, these lords’ upward career also allowed them to build up honors and rewards, diversify their income sources, as well as prop up a privileged status and become part of the titled nobility.