Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor

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Maximilian I
Holy Roman Emperor
Portrait by Albrecht Dürer, 1519
Reign	4 February 1508 – 12 January 1519
Coronation	4 February 1508
Predecessor	Frederick III
Successor	Charles V
Born	22 March 1459 Wiener Neustadt, Archduchy of Austria
Died	12 January 1519 (aged 59) Wels, Archduchy of Austria
Burial	Castle Chapel, Wiener Neustadt
Spouse	Mary of Burgundy
Issue	Philip the Handsome
House	House of Habsburg
Father	Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor
Mother	Eleanor of Portugal, Holy Roman Empress
Religion	Roman Catholic

Maximilian I (22 March 1459 – 12 January 1519) was Holy Roman Emperor from 1508 until his death in 1519. He was a member of the House of Habsburg and the son of Frederick III and Eleanor of Portugal. Maximilian expanded the influence of the House of Habsburg through both war and marriage, most notably by marrying Mary of Burgundy, which brought the rich Burgundian territories into the Habsburg fold.

Early Life

Maximilian was born in Wiener Neustadt, in the Archduchy of Austria. He was the son of Frederick III and Eleanor of Portugal. His early education was overseen by his father, who ensured that he was well-versed in the arts of war and governance.

Reign

Maximilian's reign as Holy Roman Emperor began in 1508, although he had been elected King of the Romans in 1486. His reign was marked by efforts to reform the empire and consolidate Habsburg power. He is known for his attempts to centralize the administration of the empire and for his military campaigns in Italy and against the Ottoman Empire.

Marriage and Alliances

Maximilian's marriage to Mary of Burgundy in 1477 was a significant political alliance that brought the Burgundian territories under Habsburg control. This marriage significantly increased the power and influence of the Habsburgs in Europe. Their son, Philip the Handsome, would go on to marry Joanna of Castile, further extending Habsburg influence into Spain.

Military Campaigns

Maximilian was involved in numerous military campaigns throughout his reign. He fought in the Burgundian Wars and the Italian Wars, seeking to expand and defend Habsburg territories. His efforts to reform the military and administration of the empire were part of his broader strategy to strengthen Habsburg rule.

Legacy

Maximilian I is remembered for his efforts to modernize the administration of the Holy Roman Empire and for his role in expanding Habsburg influence through strategic marriages and military campaigns. His reign laid the groundwork for the future dominance of the Habsburgs in European politics.

Related Pages

• Holy Roman Empire
• House of Habsburg
• Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor
• Mary of Burgundy
• Philip I of Castile
• Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor
• Burgundian Wars
• Italian Wars

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