The European powers had negotiated a division of Spain's empire because none wanted another war. Charles II's will instead left his possessions to the Duke of Anjou, and Louis XIV accepted it in place of the treaties. French troops then entered the Spanish Netherlands, higher tariffs threatened foreign trade, and French officials tried to control access to Spanish America. These actions threatened Dutch security and English and Dutch commerce. Louis's recognition of James II's son after his father's death in 1701 added a direct challenge to England's settlement.
Notable Point · 2:21:33-2:22:47
How Louis XIV provoked another coalition over the Spanish succession
French moves over Spain's inheritance threatened Dutch security and Anglo-Dutch commerce, then challenged England's royal succession.