Dawn of a Dynasty

This highly original biography of Infante Manuel offers an intriguing and alternative perspective on one of the most turbulent eras of medieval Spain.

Richard P. Kinkade is professor emeritus of Spanish and Portuguese at the University of Arizona.

"Kinkade’s archival work and analysis are of undeniable value, and he has woven them into a historical narrative that is clear and at times quite lively. Most importantly, he demonstrates how Infante Manuel exerted diplomatic influence not only in the Iberian kingdoms, but on a larger Mediterranean stage that included the pope, the count of Savoy, and the sovereigns of England, France, Sicily, and Tunis. Ultimately, this book is a worthy capstone to Kinkade’s legacy as a scholar of medieval Iberia."

Simon Doubleday, Department of History, Hofstra University, Founding Editor and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Medieval Iberian Studies:

"Dawn of a Dynasty offers an original and exceptionally well-researched perspective on a pivotal period in medieval Iberian history. Richard P. Kinkade’s work is deeply informed by a close reading of the sources, shedding new light on the thirteenth century, and the degree of biographical detail is impressive."

Joseph O’Callaghan, Department of History, Fordham University:

"Adopting a chronological approach, Richard P. Kinkade has written an exceptionally valuable study that greatly advances our knowledge and understanding of Infante Manuel as a confidant and collaborator of the king whom he eventually abandoned."