Gaspar de Guzman Count-Duke of Olivares vs Micheline Calmy-Rey

Gaspar de Guzm

Olivares proposed the Union of Arms, a plan to create a unified army drawn from all Spanish kingdoms. The plan was resisted by the various realms, particularly Catalonia, and contributed to the outbreak of the Catalan Revolt in 1640.

Portugal declared independence from Spain, beginning the Portuguese Restoration War. Olivares's centralizing policies and heavy taxation had alienated the Portuguese nobility, leading to the revolt that ultimately ended the Iberian Union.

Olivares was dismissed by Philip IV after a series of military defeats and political failures. He was forced into exile and died shortly after, marking the end of his ambitious but ultimately unsuccessful attempt to centralize and revive the Spanish Empire.

Calmy-Rey was elected to the Federal Council, heading the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs from 2003 to 2011. She advocated for Swiss neutrality while engaging with the EU and UN, and promoted human rights and peacebuilding.

Calmy-Rey was elected President of the Swiss Confederation for the year 2007, becoming the first woman to hold the office. She focused on foreign policy, including Switzerland's relations with the European Union and international organizations.

Calmy-Rey supported the 'Swissness' initiative, which aimed to protect Swiss cultural identity and products in the context of globalization. The initiative led to stricter regulations on the use of Swiss symbols and labels.

Calmy-Rey called for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, arguing for a more representative and effective body. She emphasized the need for greater inclusion of small states and developing countries.

Calmy-Rey was re-elected as President of the Swiss Confederation for 2011, a rare second term. She continued her work on foreign policy and social issues, including promoting gender equality and sustainable development.