Spanish regent Maria Christina had secretly married…

Spanish regent Maria Christina had secretly married an ex-sergeant from the royal guard, Augustín Fernández Muñoz, Duke of Riansares, who had been given the title Duke of Riansares, on December 28, 1833, shortly after the death of Ferdinand VII.

Maria Christina and Muñoz will have several children together while trying to keep their marriage a secret, including four born between 1834 and 1838.

Eventually, news of Maria Christina's marriage to this low-ranking soldier had become public, making Maria Christina deeply unpopular.

Her position is undermined by news of her remarriage and concerns that she is not actually supportive of her liberal ministers and their policies.

Eventually, the army, which is the backbone of Isabella II's support, and the liberal leadership in the Cortes combines to demand that Maria Christina stand aside from the regency.