Carlos IV of Spain was the king of Spain from 1788 until 1808. He was born on November 11, 1748, and was the son of Carlos III of Spain. His reign was marked by political instability and the influence of his wife, Maria Luisa of Parma, and the powerful minister Manuel Godoy. During his rule, Spain faced challenges such as the French Revolution and growing discontent among the populace. In 1808, Carlos IV abdicated the throne in favor of his son, Ferdinand VII, amid pressure from Napoleon, leading to significant changes in Spanish governance and society.