Background and profile of Fernán López de Saldaña, Accountant General of Juan II of Castile

Abstract

Biographical study of Fernán López de Saldaña (c.1400-1456), Head Counter of King John II of Castille between 1428 and 1445, through his family, his courtier rise, his covenant marriage and political alliances, his fortune and goods, and his fall, exile and death at last. The figure of counter Saldaña is an example of the homines novi who, along the first half of 15th Century, through quill exercise and management of chancillery and treasury secrets got their Sovereign’s confidence and the highest charges in court and kingdom ruling. Quite relevant life stories mainly embodied in three head counters of King John II: Robles, Saldaña and Vivero.