Political Alliance:
- Mary was the Catholic queen of England at a time when England was struggling to maintain its independence against France and Scotland. By marrying Philip, Mary sought to secure an alliance with Spain, one of the most powerful nations in Europe.
Religion:
- Both Philip and Mary were devout Catholics and shared a commitment to restoring the Catholic faith in England after the Protestant Reformation had gained significant ground during the reign of Mary's father, Henry VIII.
Dynastic Considerations:
- Mary was in her thirties and had yet to produce an heir, making the succession to the English throne uncertain. By marrying Philip, she hoped to secure the stability of the Tudor dynasty and ensure the continuation of the Catholic faith.
Personal Compatibility:
- Despite the significant age difference between them (Mary was 11 years older than Philip) personal accounts suggest they had a harmonious and respectful relationship. They shared similar interests, including music and hunting, and Philip seemed to genuinely care of Mary's well-being.