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Events on Tuesday 25 May 1734 2
1734Charles of Bourbon conquers the Kingdom of NaplesSpanish Bourbon forces end Austrian rule in southern ItalySpanish troops led by Charles of Bourbon occupied Naples and, after the victory at Bitonto, overran the remaining Austrian strongholds in the kingdom. The conquest established an independent Bourbon-ruled Kingdom of Naples, separate from Spain, for the first time in over two centuries. Charles was crowned king the following year.
1734Battle of BitontoSpanish forces crush an Austrian army in southern ItalySpanish troops under the Count of Montemar routed the Austrian garrison defending Naples, destroying organized Habsburg resistance in the kingdom. The victory secured Naples for Charles of Bourbon during the War of the Polish Succession and opened the way for a Spanish conquest of Sicily. It is remembered as one of the most lopsided battles of the era.