The Atlantic trade was in trouble because of the depredations of the English and Dutch. Catalonia was a self-governing province, ruled by a viceroy, that had been part of the Crown of Aragon since the Middle Ages. It was difficult to govern and in the reign of Philip II order had broken down almost completely.
Diabetics or others with nerve damage in the feet are also susceptible to toe cramp problems. Some medications may cause cramps in the toes as a side effect. Another possible cause of is a lack of minerals, such as calcium and potassium, in the body. Dehydration is another body problem that could cause cramping toes.
Dear Kato: Darkening of the toes that hurt could result from compromised blood supply to those toes, leading to a condition called gangrene. Gangrene may occur after an injury or infection, or in people suffering from any chronic health problems, affecting blood circulation such as diabetes. It also often occurs in the toes and feet of elderly patients due to arteriosclerosis, a condition also known as senile gangrene. Arteriosclerosis occurs when the blood vessels that carry oxygen and nutrients from a particular area become thick and stiff, many times ending up restricting blood flow, in this case to the toes. Also, over a long period of time, people such as those with diabetes may have a buildup of fats, cholesterol and other substances in the arteries which may restrict blood flow.