The War of the Spanish Succession (1701-1714) was a major European conflict triggered by the death of the childless Spanish King Charles II. His will favored the French Bourbon family, which alarmed other European powers, fearing a union of France and Spain under one dynasty. This led to a coalition of countries, including Great Britain, Austria, and the Dutch Republic, opposing France and Spain. The war involved several significant battles and campaigns across Europe and ended with the Treaty of Utrecht in 1713. This treaty established a balance of power by allowing the Bourbons to rule Spain but preventing them from uniting it with France.