One of the pivotal moments of Pedro’s reign was the Castilian Civil War, also dubbed the War of the Two Peters. It erupted in 1356 and lasted for several years, plunging the kingdom into chaos and bloodshed. The conflict arose primarily from Pedro’s tumultuous relationship with his half-brother, Henry of Trastámara. Henry harbored deep resentment towards Pedro, feeling marginalized and overshadowed by his more powerful sibling.
The war was fueled by a complex web of political intrigue, personal rivalries, and territorial ambitions. Henry capitalized on discontent among the nobility and peasantry to garner support for his bid to overthrow Pedro.
The Castilian Civil War
The conflict quickly escalated into a full-scale civil war, with both sides vying for control of Castile. Battles were fought across the kingdom, leaving devastation in their wake and tearing apart families and communities.
Pedro’s forces initially enjoyed some success on the battlefield. But Henry’s guerrilla tactics and alliances with external powers gradually turned the tide against him. The conflict dragged on for years, exacting a heavy toll on the Castilian populace.
The War of the Two Peters came to a climactic conclusion in 1369 with the decisive Battle of Montiel. Pedro’s forces were defeated, and he was captured by his enemies. Henry emerged victorious, solidifying his grip on the throne of Castile.
Following the civil war, Henry solidified his authority and initiated a period of stability and reform. In contrast, Pedro’s defeat and his tyrannical rule stained his legacy, resulting in the infamous moniker “the Cruel.”
The Castilian Civil War left scars that would linger for generations, reshaping the political landscape of medieval Spain and setting the stage for further conflicts and power struggles in the region.