Castanos

Castanos, Francisco Xavier de, Duke of Baylen, was born about 1755, probably at Madrid, and received a military education in Germany. He was driven out of Spain by Godoy, but on the fall of the favourite he returned, and in 1808 gained a remarkable success at Baylen over the French, commanded by Dupont. He served with distinction during the rest of the war, displaying much courage and skill at Vittoria in 1813. He was captain-general in 1823, and councillor of state three years later, following a moderate policy. In 1843, after Espartero's fall, he was made guardian of Queen Isabella. He lived until 1852.