First German ruler to be elected as Holy Roman Emperor, he played a crucial role in shaping the Holy Roman Empire and its relations with the Church. He's known for his diplomatic and military prowess.
Frederick I, also known as Frederick the Warlike, was a prominent figure in German history, reigning as Margrave of Meissen from 1407 and Elector of Saxony from 1423 until his death in 1428. He is renowned for his military prowess, playing a crucial role in the war against the Hussites and securing key victories, including the Battle of Brux in 1421.
Born on April 11, 1370, Frederick I was the eldest son of Frederick III, Landgrave of Thuringia, and Catherine of Henneberg. His family, the House of Wettin, was a powerful and influential dynasty in Germany.
After the death of his uncle William I, Margrave of Meissen in 1407, Frederick I was appointed governor of the Margraviate of Meissen, sharing the responsibility with his brother William II and cousin Frederick IV. In 1410 and 1415, their possessions were divided, and Frederick I's territories expanded.
Frederick I supported Frederick V of Hohenzollern, burgrave of Nuremberg, in the German town war of 1388 and later assisted the Teutonic Order against Wladislaus II of Poland in 1391. He also backed Rupert III, Elector Palatine of the Rhine, in his struggle for the German throne, hoping to secure a marriage with Anna, Wenceslaus's sister.
In the face of the Hussite threat to Germany, Frederick I formed an alliance with Emperor Sigismund, taking a leading role in the war against the Hussites. His military success earned him the ranks of Duke and Elector, and he was granted various places in Bohemia and elsewhere in pledge from Sigismund.
In 1423, Frederick I was rewarded with the vacant electoral Duchy of Saxony, Wittenberg, and his formal investiture followed at Ofen on August 1, 1425. Thus, he became Frederick I, Duke and Elector of Saxony.
Frederick I's military campaigns and alliances had a significant impact on the history of Germany. His victories against the Hussites and his role in securing key territories solidified his position as a powerful leader. Although his reign was marked by controversy and conflict, his legacy as a skilled military strategist and Elector of Saxony endures.
Frederick I, Elector of Saxony, left an indelible mark on German history, leaving behind a legacy of military prowess, strategic alliances, and a lasting impact on the country's development.
Born in 1483
A German monk and priest who sparked the Protestant Reformation, challenging Catholic Church authority and shaping Western Christianity. He's famous for nailing 95 theses to a church door, sparking a religious revolution.
Born in 1471
A 15th-century German nobleman who ruled Saxony and was a key figure in the early Protestant Reformation, supporting Martin Luther's ideas and protecting him from persecution. He's also known for his cultural achievements, including commissioning artworks and founding the University of Wittenberg.
Born in 1526
A 16th-century German ruler who played a key role in the Protestant Reformation and was a strong supporter of the arts, commissioning many notable works of literature and music.
Born in 1585
Ruler of Saxony from 1611 to 1656, known for his role in the Thirty Years' War and his efforts to maintain Saxony's independence. He also supported the arts and architecture, commissioning several notable buildings.
Born in 1441
German ruler of Saxony who introduced the Reformation and played a key role in the early Protestant movement, shaping the course of European history.
