Famous German Monarchs & Rulers

Charlemagne, a member of the Frankish Carolingian dynasty, was King of the Franks from 768 and King of the Lombards from 774. He was crowned Emperor of the Carolingian Empire in 800, ruling until his death in 814. Charlemagne united Western and Central Europe, expanding his empire through conquests in Bavaria, Saxony, and northern Spain. He spread Christianity across his territories and engaged in diplomatic relations with the Abbasid caliphate. His reign was marked by political, social, and cultural reforms, shaping Europe for centuries.

Frederick II, known as Frederick the Great, ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786. He annexed Silesia and expanded Prussia's territories, making it a major European power. Frederick was a skilled military leader, reforming the Prussian Army and winning acclaim in wars. He supported enlightened absolutism, modernised bureaucracy, and promoted religious tolerance. Frederick's legacy includes advancements in military strategy, administrative efficiency, and cultural patronage. Historically praised as a model ruler, his reputation fluctuated post-World War II but is now recognized for his military prowess and administrative reforms.

Wilhelm I was King of Prussia from 1861 and German Emperor from 1871 until his death in 1888. He played a key role in the unification of Germany through victories in wars like the Second Schleswig War and the Austro-Prussian War. He appointed Otto von Bismarck as Minister President to push through military budgets and foreign policies, establishing Prussia as a dominant German power. Wilhelm's reign saw the proclamation of the German Empire, with Bismarck largely managing state affairs. Multiple assassination attempts targeted him, leading to the passing of anti-socialist laws.

Leopold I of Belgium had a diverse professional life, starting with his military service in the Imperial Russian Army. He later declined the throne of Greece but accepted the kingship of Belgium due to his diplomatic connections. As the first King of the Belgians, he played a key role in preventing Dutch attempts to recapture Belgium and encouraged economic modernization through initiatives like the country's first railway. Leopold's reign saw internal political divisions but he successfully navigated challenges and expanded the monarch's powers slightly.

Louis the Pious was King of the Franks and co-emperor with his father, Charlemagne. He conquered Barcelona and asserted Frankish authority over Pamplona and the Basques. As emperor, he involved his sons in governance and aimed to divide the realm among them. His reign saw tragedies, including the mistreatment of his nephew Bernard, which he publicly atoned for. Civil war erupted between his sons in the 830s, exacerbated by succession disputes. Despite challenges, Louis sought to restore order to his empire.

Otto I, also known as Otto the Great, was the East Frankish king from 936 and Holy Roman Emperor from 962 until his death in 973. He unified German tribes into a single kingdom, expanded royal powers, and strategically appointed family members to key positions, consolidating his authority. Otto defeated the Magyars at the Battle of Lechfeld in 955, securing his reputation as a savior of Christendom. His reign included conflicts with the papacy and efforts to stabilize rule over Italy, marked by successful military campaigns and cultural advancements.

Frederick III was the German Emperor and King of Prussia for a brief period in 1888. Raised in a military tradition, he became Crown Prince after the unification of Germany in 1871. Known as "Fritz", he developed liberal tendencies and opposed Chancellor Bismarck's policies. Frederick and his wife, Princess Victoria, aimed to institute democratic reforms and transform the Empire into a constitutional monarchy. However, his battle with cancer hindered his ability to enact significant changes. His short reign and unrealized potential remain subjects of historical debate.

Sigismund of Luxembourg was Holy Roman Emperor from 1433 to 1437. He was King of Germany, King of Bohemia, and prince-elector of Brandenburg. As the husband of Mary, Queen of Hungary, he also ruled Hungary and Croatia. Sigismund led the Crusade of Nicopolis against the Ottoman Empire, founded the Order of the Dragon, and played a key role in the Council of Constance. His vision for reforming the empire and Church was hindered by external challenges and the extinction of the Luxembourg male line.

Francis I was the Holy Roman Emperor, Archduke of Austria, Duke of Lorraine and Bar, and Grand Duke of Tuscany. He came to power through his marriage to Maria Theresa, daughter of Emperor Charles VI. They founded the Habsburg-Lorraine dynasty. Francis was the last non-Habsburg monarch of the Empire. He managed the empire's financial affairs well and played a key role in ruling the Habsburg domains. His professional life was marked by his responsibilities as a ruler and his successful handling of financial matters.

Charles III, also known as Charles the Fat, was the emperor of the Carolingian Empire from 881 to 887. He inherited various kingdoms within Charlemagne's former empire and reunited East Francia and West Francia, briefly creating a united kingdom of the Franks. Despite being considered lethargic and inept due to frequent illness, he managed to purchase peace with Viking raiders. However, he was deposed in a coup led by his nephew Arnulf of Carinthia in 887, leading to the splintering of the Carolingian Empire after his death.

Frederick William I, known as the Soldier King, was King in Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg. He implemented significant military reforms, expanding the Prussian Army and focusing on state development and financial reorganization. He centralized his authority, imposing taxes and regulations on public servants, and made efforts to reduce crime. Despite a harsh nature, he effectively ruled and solidified Prussia as a regional power. His reign saw military and administrative reform, including the sale of overseas colonies and the conquest of Stettin.

Frederick William II of Prussia, king from 1786 to 1797, played a significant role in shaping the political landscape of his time. He ended the German Dualism between Prussia and Austria in response to the French Revolution. Domestically, he implemented stricter censorship and religious control policies. Notable for his patronage of the arts, especially music, he was a skilled cellist and inspired compositions by renowned composers. His architectural legacy includes iconic structures like the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin and the Marble Palace in Potsdam, showcasing his keen interest in the arts and culture.

Henry IV, Holy Roman Emperor, reigned from 1084 to 1105. He faced challenges with German aristocrats due to his policies, including appointing commoners to high office and asserting his right to appoint bishops and abbots. His conflicts with the Holy See and German dukes weakened his position, leading to rebellions. Henry's active policy in Italy brought him into conflict with the Pope, resulting in excommunication and the appointment of an antiking. He was eventually crowned emperor in Rome in 1084, but faced ongoing opposition and eventually abdicated in 1105.

Augustus II the Strong was Elector of Saxony and King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania, known for his physical strength and patronage of the arts. He converted to Roman Catholicism to be elected as king, receiving prestigious orders and establishing Poland's highest honor. Augustus was a patron of the arts, transforming Dresden into a cultural hub and amassing a significant art collection. He also served as the Imperial vicar of the Holy Roman Empire and led Poland in the Great Northern War, which had mixed results for the country.

Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, served as the last sovereign duke of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld and the first sovereign duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. He fought against Napoleon Bonaparte and left a strong imprint on his residence town, Coburg, through construction projects and establishing a court theatre. His reign saw significant developments in the region, and he played a key role in shaping the political landscape during his time as a ruler.

Frederick Barbarossa, Holy Roman Emperor from 1155 until his death in 1190, was a skilled ruler known for his longevity, ambition, organizational abilities, battlefield prowess, and political astuteness. He was crowned King of Germany in 1152, King of Italy in 1155, and Emperor in 1155. His reign saw the re-establishment of the Corpus Juris Civilis, countering papal dominance. Frederick's professional life was marked by his central role in Central European society and culture, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the empire's greatest medieval emperors.

Edmund the Martyr, also known as St Edmund, was the king of East Anglia from around 855 until his death in 869. Historical facts about his reign are scarce due to Viking devastation. He succeeded Æthelweard and was of East Anglian origin. Edmund's death was recorded in the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, either in battle against the Great Heathen Army or after refusing to renounce Christ. He was later canonized by the Church, leading to the emergence of a popular cult and the minting of commemorative coins.

Frederick I of Prussia, a member of the Hohenzollern dynasty, served as Elector of Brandenburg and Duke of Prussia before elevating his title to King of Prussia, becoming the first monarch of the kingdom. He also held the title of sovereign prince of the Principality of Neuchâtel. Frederick I's reign saw the consolidation of power within Brandenburg-Prussia and significant territorial expansions. He played a key role in establishing Prussia as a major European power during his time as ruler.

Charles VII was Prince-Elector of Bavaria from 1726 and Holy Roman Emperor from 1742 until his death in 1745. He succeeded his father as elector and married Archduchess Maria Amalia of Austria. Following the death of Emperor Charles VI, Charles claimed the Archduchy of Austria and the Bohemian throne. Elected as Holy Roman Emperor in 1742, his reign marked the end of Habsburg imperial rule. Charles VII ruled until his death in 1745, leaving a significant impact on European politics.

Frederick William IV of Prussia was king from 1840 until his death in 1861, known for his conservative political philosophy and belief in ruling by divine right. Initially, he pursued a moderate policy, easing press censorship and releasing political prisoners. During the German revolutions of 1848–1849, he accommodated revolutionary sentiments but rejected the title of Emperor of the Germans. He dissolved the Prussian National Assembly in 1848, imposing a constitution with a parliament and a strong monarch. He also had an artistic nature, supporting architectural projects that are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Louis, Prince Napoléon was a member of the Bonaparte dynasty and the pretender to the Imperial throne of France, known as Napoléon VI. Throughout his professional life, he dedicated himself to preserving the legacy of the Napoleonic era and advocating for the restoration of the French Empire. He engaged in various public appearances, discussions, and activities aimed at promoting the Bonapartist cause and maintaining the traditions associated with his family's historical significance in France.

William I, German Emperor, was a key figure in the unification of Germany. He became King of Prussia in 1861 and later German Emperor in 1871. William appointed Otto von Bismarck as Minister President to implement his military reforms, leading to victories in the Second Schleswig War and Austro-Prussian War. Through Bismarck's strategies, Germany was unified after the Franco-Prussian War. Despite his power as Kaiser, William delegated state affairs to Bismarck and faced assassination attempts. He died at 90, succeeded by his son Frederick.

Henry V, King of Germany and Holy Roman Emperor, was the last ruler of the Salian dynasty. He became co-ruler with his father in 1098 and later allied with opponents against his father during conflicts with the imperial princes and the reform papacy. Henry forced his father to abdicate and ruled compliantly for five years before attempting to withdraw regalia from bishops. He captured Pope Paschal II to secure his imperial coronation in 1111. Despite early autocratic rule, he later yielded to the papal demands, ending the Investiture Controversy in 1122.

Ludwig II of Bavaria, known as the Swan King or the Fairy Tale King, ruled from 1864 until his death in 1886. He held various titles and was known for his extravagant artistic and architectural projects, including the construction of Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Herrenchiemsee. Ludwig was a devoted patron of composer Richard Wagner and spent his private royal revenues on lavish projects, despite opposition from his ministers. He was controversially declared insane, leading to his deposition and subsequent death, which was ruled a suicide. His legacy includes many of Bavaria's top tourist attractions.

Rudolf I of Habsburg was the first King of Germany from the House of Habsburg, reigning from 1273 until his death in 1291. His election ended the Great Interregnum following the death of Emperor Frederick II. Rudolf acquired the duchies of Austria and Styria, defeating his rival Ottokar II of Bohemia in battle. These territories remained under Habsburg rule for over 600 years, forming the core of the Habsburg monarchy. Rudolf's actions elevated the House of Habsburg to the status of Imperial princes.

George V was the last king of Hanover, reigning from 1851 to 1866. He succeeded his father and faced challenges during his reign. His rule came to an end due to the Austro-Prussian War, which led to the annexation of Hanover by Prussia. Despite his efforts to maintain his position, George V was unable to prevent the loss of his kingdom. His professional life was defined by the political turmoil of the time and the eventual fall of Hanover under Prussian control.

Wilhelm II was the last German Emperor and King of Prussia, reigning from 1888 to 1918. He dismissed Chancellor Otto von Bismarck in 1890 to take control of Germany's policies, pursuing a bellicose "New Course" to establish Germany as a global power. Despite expanding the German colonial empire and promoting scientific innovation, his erratic foreign policy and provocative statements strained international relations. Wilhelm's guarantee of military support to Austria-Hungary in 1914 led to World War I, culminating in Germany's defeat and his abdication in 1918.

Henry III, Holy Roman Emperor, succeeded his father Conrad II as Duke of Carinthia and King of Italy. He ended the papal schism in 1046 and was crowned Emperor by Pope Clement II. Henry enforced sovereign royal rights in the duchies, tightened control, and emerged victorious in conflicts in Lorraine and southern Germany. He laid the foundation for empire-wide authority, freed the Vatican from Roman nobility, and was known for his courage and honesty. His reign is noted for a crisis in the Salian monarchy towards the end.

George I of Great Britain became King in 1714 after the deaths of his mother, Sophia, and his second cousin, Queen Anne. During his reign, the powers of the monarchy declined as Britain transitioned towards a modern system of cabinet government led by a prime minister. He faced challenges from Jacobites seeking to depose him in favor of Anne's Catholic half-brother but ultimately maintained his position. George's reign saw the rise of Robert Walpole as Britain's first de facto prime minister, wielding significant political power.

Louis IV, known as the Bavarian, was King of the Romans from 1314, King of Italy from 1327, and Holy Roman Emperor from 1328. His election as king of Germany in 1314 was controversial, leading to conflict with his Habsburg cousin Frederick the Fair. Louis defeated Frederick in the Battle of Mühldorf in 1322. He faced opposition and excommunication by Pope John XXII, leading Louis to attempt to depose the pope. Louis held various titles including Duke of Upper Bavaria, Margrave of Brandenburg, Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Lower Bavaria.

Henry the Fowler, known for his military prowess and strategic alliances, played a pivotal role in establishing the Ottonian dynasty in Germany. As Duke of Saxony and later King of East Francia, he successfully quelled internal revolts and external threats, expanding German hegemony through military conquests and diplomatic maneuvers. His leadership saw the defeat of rebellious dukes, subjugation of neighboring territories, and the consolidation of royal power. Henry's legacy as a skilled ruler and defender of the realm laid the foundation for a stronger German kingdom under his successor.

Charles Louis, Elector Palatine, was a prominent figure during the German Thirty Years' War and the English Civil War. He spent much of his early life in exile but later reclaimed his father's title and territories. He played a significant role in the political landscape of his time, engaging in diplomatic efforts and military campaigns to assert his authority and protect his territories. His professional life was marked by strategic decisions and efforts to maintain stability and power in the face of turbulent historical events.

Henry the Lion, also known as Henry III, Duke of Saxony and Henry XII, Duke of Bavaria, was a prominent member of the Welf dynasty. He was one of the most influential German princes of his time, ruling over a vast territory that extended from the North and Baltic seas to the Alps. Henry's political and military skills, combined with the legacies of his grandparents, enabled him to amass significant power. However, he was eventually isolated and stripped of his duchies by the rival Hohenstaufen dynasty.

Frederick Augustus III of Saxony served in the Royal Saxon Army and was eventually promoted to Generalfeldmarschall. He was well-loved by his subjects during his reign as the last King of Saxony from 1904 to 1918. Despite his popularity, he voluntarily abdicated the throne on 13 November 1918 following the defeat of the German Empire in World War I. Frederick Augustus III passed away at his Sibyllenort Palace in Lower Silesia and was laid to rest in Dresden.

Frederick Augustus I of Saxony, a member of the House of Wettin, served as the last Elector of Saxony and the first King of Saxony. He also held the title of Duke of Warsaw and was a contender for the Polish throne. Throughout his political career, he endeavored to revive the Polish state following its partition in 1795. Despite his unsuccessful attempts, his dedication to the Polish cause earned him admiration among the Polish people. The Augustusplatz in Leipzig is named in his honor.

Ferdinand II of Portugal, a German prince, became the King of Portugal through marriage to Queen Maria II. He ruled as regent for his son after her death, maintaining the title of king. Despite not having full sovereignty, Ferdinand played an active role in the governance of Portugal during his regency. He supported cultural and artistic initiatives, modernized infrastructure, and promoted scientific advancements. Ferdinand's legacy includes his contributions to the development and modernization of Portugal during the 19th century.

Louis the German was the first king of East Francia, ruling from 843 to 876 AD. He received the East Frankish kingdom in the Treaty of Verdun (843) after conflicts with his father and brothers. His attempts to conquer West Francia in 858–59 failed. He acquired Lotharingia in 870 through the Treaty of Meerssen. Louis struggled to claim the title of Emperor and Italy. He reached a peace agreement with the Moravians in 874. His rule saw a decline in written administration.

Frederick V was the Elector Palatine of the Rhine in the Holy Roman Empire from 1610 to 1623. He was an intellectual, a mystic, and a Calvinist. Frederick succeeded his father as Prince-Elector of the Rhenish Palatinate in 1610 and married the Protestant princess Elizabeth Stuart. In 1619, he briefly reigned as King of Bohemia after being asked to assume the crown by the largely Protestant Czech nobility. However, his reign ended with defeat at the Battle of White Mountain in 1620.

Prince Leopold of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen was the head of the Swabian branch of the House of Hohenzollern. He played a role in European power politics during the Franco-Prussian War. He renounced his rights to the Romanian succession in favor of his sons in 1880. He was the older brother of King Carol I of Romania and father of King Ferdinand of Romania. His professional life was marked by his leadership within the House of Hohenzollern and his involvement in the political dynamics of the time.

Otto III, Holy Roman Emperor, ruled from 996 until his death in 1002. Crowned King of Germany at age 3, faced early challenges with regents vying for power. Successfully claimed titles of King of Italy and Emperor, reestablished control over Rome and the papacy. Fought opposition from Slavs in the east, worked to regain lost territories with limited success. Strengthened relations with Poland, Bohemia, and Hungary, extended Christian influence through mission work and crowning of Stephen I. Died at 21, leaving the Empire in political crisis.

Ernest Augustus, Elector of Hanover, was a prominent figure in the Holy Roman Empire, serving as the ninth prince-elector. He held various titles, including Prince of Calenberg and ruler of the Prince-Bishopric of Osnabrück. His leadership extended to the political and religious realms, as he governed territories and played a crucial role in the electoral process. Known for his influence and strategic alliances, Ernest Augustus contributed significantly to the political landscape of his time, leaving a lasting impact on the regions under his rule.

Prince Frederick Charles of Hesse was a prominent figure in European royalty, known for his brief tenure as the elected King of Finland in 1918. Despite his renouncement of the throne just two months after his election, he played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. As the brother-in-law of the German Emperor Wilhelm II, he had close ties to the German imperial family. His professional life was marked by his involvement in the monarchy and his interactions with various European leaders.

Ferdinand I of Bulgaria served as Prince of Bulgaria from 1887 to 1908 and later as Tsar of Bulgaria until his abdication in 1918. During his reign, Bulgaria entered World War I on the side of the Central Powers in 1915. Ferdinand I played a significant role in shaping Bulgaria's political and military strategies during this period, ultimately facing challenges that led to his abdication. His professional life was marked by his leadership decisions and the impact they had on Bulgaria's involvement in the war.

Henry VII, also known as Henry of Luxembourg, was the first emperor of the House of Luxembourg. He served as Count of Luxembourg, King of Germany (Rex Romanorum), and Holy Roman Emperor. During his brief career, he reinvigorated the imperial cause in Italy, inspiring praise from notable figures like Dino Compagni and Dante Alighieri. Henry VII's reign ended the Great Interregnum of the Holy Roman Empire following the death of Frederick II in 1250, although his premature death posed challenges to the stability he had worked to establish.

Otto IV was the Holy Roman Emperor from 1209 until his death in 1218. He spent his early life in England and France, becoming Count of Poitou under Richard the Lionheart. Elected King of Germany in 1198 after a disputed election, he became sole king upon the death of his rival. Otto marched to Italy in 1209 to be crowned emperor by Pope Innocent III. He sought to unite Sicily with the Empire, leading to conflicts with the Pope and involvement in international alliances and battles. Otto eventually retired in 1215.

Frederick III was Holy Roman Emperor from 1452 until his death in 1493. Prior to his imperial coronation, he held various titles including King of Germany and duke of Inner Austrian lands. He focused on re-uniting Habsburg territories and laid the foundations for the later Habsburg Empire through dynastic entitlements. Despite being mocked during his lifetime, he is now recognized as an effective ruler who left a credible claim on the imperial title and a secure grip on the Austrian lands for his son, Maximilian.

William II of Württemberg was the last King of Württemberg, reigning from 1891 until the kingdom's dissolution in 1918. He faced challenges during his rule, such as the November Revolution of 1918, which led to his abdication. William II was known for his efforts in modernizing Württemberg's infrastructure and promoting economic development. Despite his achievements, his reign marked the end of the monarchy in Württemberg, as well as his own abdication following the turbulent events of the revolution.

Ludwig III of Bavaria served in the Bavarian military, rising to the rank of Oberleutnant during the Austro-Prussian War. He entered politics at a young age, becoming a member of the Bavarian parliament and supporting electoral reforms. He later served as regent and de facto head of state before assuming the throne for himself. During his reign, he championed conservative causes and was influenced by the Catholic encyclical Rerum novarum. After the German Revolution, he fled to various countries before returning to Bavaria, where he passed away.

Ernst, Elector of Saxony, ruled from 1464 to 1486. He established the Ernestine line of Saxon princes, leaving a lasting legacy in the region. Ernst's reign was marked by efforts to strengthen Saxony's political influence and consolidate power within his territory. He played a crucial role in shaping the political landscape of his time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to protect Saxony's interests. Ernst's leadership during his reign left a significant impact on the governance and development of Saxony.

Frederick William III of Prussia was the King of Prussia from 1797 until his death in 1840. He played a significant role during the Napoleonic Wars, reluctantly joining the Sixth Coalition against Napoleon in 1813. He participated in the Congress of Vienna post-Napoleon's defeat to address political matters in Europe. Frederick William III focused on reforming Prussia's Protestant churches, aiming to centralize royal control. He was known for his shyness and indecisiveness, relying heavily on his wife Queen Louise and a prominent group for political advice and reforms.

Conrad IV of Germany, a member of the Hohenstaufen dynasty, inherited the title of King of Jerusalem and was appointed Duke of Swabia. He was elected King of Germany and crowned King of Italy. After his father's death, he ruled as King of Sicily. His professional life was marked by political maneuvering, military campaigns, and efforts to consolidate power within the Hohenstaufen territories. Despite facing challenges and opposition, Conrad IV made significant contributions to the governance and expansion of the Hohenstaufen empire.

Augustus III of Poland served as King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania from 1733 to 1763. He was also the Elector of Saxony in the Holy Roman Empire under the name Frederick Augustus II. Augustus supported Austria against Prussia in the War of Austrian Succession and Seven Years' War, resulting in Saxony's defeat and occupation by Prussia. His rule saw increased influence from noble families, intervention by Catherine the Great, and deepened social anarchy in Poland, leading to increased dependence on neighboring powers.

Christian V of Denmark was King from 1670 until his death in 1699. He was well-regarded by the common people and fortified the absolutist system against the aristocracy. Christian accelerated the practice of allowing both Holstein nobles and Danish/Norwegian commoners into state service. He aimed to display his power through architecture, aspiring to create a Danish Versailles. Christian was the first to use the 1671 Throne Chair of Denmark for this purpose, emphasizing his motto: Pietate et Justitia (With piety and justice).

Frederick William was the Elector of Brandenburg and Duke of Prussia from 1640 until his death in 1688. He is known as "the Great Elector" for his military and political achievements. A staunch supporter of the Calvinist faith, he promoted trade and implemented domestic reforms that strengthened Prussia's position in Northern-Central Europe. His efforts laid the foundation for Prussia's eventual elevation from a duchy to a kingdom under his son and successor.

Alexander Prinz von Sachsen, also known as Alexander Afif, is a businessman who assumed the headship of the Royal House of Saxony following the death of Maria Emanuel, Margrave of Meissen, in July 2012. He inherited this role based on a 1997 agreement that named him as the heir. However, his claim to the headship is disputed by his cousin, Prince Daniel of Saxony. Despite the controversy surrounding his claim, Alexander continues to be involved in business activities alongside his role within the Royal House of Saxony.

Conrad III of the Hohenstaufen dynasty held various titles during his reign, including Duke of Franconia, anti-king to his predecessor Lothair III, and eventually King of the Romans in the Holy Roman Empire. He played a role in the conflicts between the Guelphs and Ghibellines and took part in the unsuccessful Second Crusade. Conrad III faced challenges with sieges during his time in Jerusalem and was involved in disputes over the Duchy of Bavaria. He designated his nephew as his successor before his death.

Philip of Swabia was a member of the House of Hohenstaufen and King of Germany from 1198 until his assassination. Following the death of his brother, he became embroiled in a power struggle for the German throne against Otto of Brunswick. Through European and papal support, Philip gradually asserted his kingship in the north part of the Alps. Despite his efforts, he was assassinated in 1208, becoming the first German king to be murdered during his reign. Philip's legacy as a Hohenstaufen ruler is often overlooked in history.

Christopher of Bavaria served as the King of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway during the Kalmar Union period. As the ruler of these Nordic countries, he faced various challenges and conflicts related to governance, administration, and maintaining unity within the union. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power, navigate political alliances, and manage the complex dynamics of the union. Christopher's professional life was centered around the duties and responsibilities of monarchy, including diplomacy, warfare, and decision-making in matters of state.

Jean-Christophe, Prince Napoleon is a successful private equity professional with experience at top firms like Morgan Stanley and Blackstone in New York City and London. He is also the founder of Leon Capital, a private equity investment firm. His educational background includes degrees from HEC Paris and Harvard Business School. As the disputed head of the Imperial House of France, he is considered the heir of Napoleon Bonaparte, the first Emperor of the French, and would be known as Napoleon VII.

Conrad II, also known as Conrad the Salic, was the emperor of the Holy Roman Empire from 1027 to 1039. He inherited titles of count at a young age and gained favor among the kingdom's princes. Conrad adopted aspects of Ottonian rulership and Charlemagne's practices. He balanced power with the Church, shifting alliances in Italy to win support from nobles and the military elite. Conrad's reign was marked by a relatively peaceful period, including the incorporation of the Kingdom of Burgundy into the empire.

Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor, ruled from 1014 until his death in 1024. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995. Henry became King of the Romans in 1002 and was crowned Emperor in 1014. He focused on renovating imperial territories, centralizing authority, and cultivating ties with the Catholic Church. Henry faced conflicts with Polish Duke Bolesław I and led expeditions into Italy. He strengthened imperial rule through donations to the Church, establishment of new dioceses, and promotion of monastic reform. Canonized as a saint in 1146.

Maximilian II reigned as King of Bavaria from 1848 to 1864. He was known for his popularity, focus on governance over personal indulgence, and efforts to stabilize Bavaria during the German Revolution of 1848. Throughout his reign, he worked to maintain Bavarian independence during the German Unification wars and sought to enhance Munich's reputation as a center for culture and education. Maximilian's professional life was marked by his dedication to his kingdom's stability, independence, and cultural development.

Louis the Child became king of East Francia at a young age and was also recognized as king of Lotharingia. He was the last ruler of the Carolingian dynasty in East Francia. Despite his youth, he faced challenges during his reign, including Magyar raids that ravaged the country. Louis' brief professional life was marked by his efforts to govern and protect his realm in the face of external threats, although his reign was cut short by his untimely death.

Louis II, Prince of Monaco, reigned from 1922 to 1949. He focused on modernizing Monaco, expanding its economy through tourism and gambling. Louis II was known for his interest in sports, particularly motor racing and boxing. He established the Monte Carlo Rally and promoted the development of Monte Carlo as a cultural and social hub. Under his rule, Monaco also saw advancements in infrastructure, including the construction of new buildings and roads.

Henry VI, a member of the Hohenstaufen dynasty, served as King of Germany (King of the Romans) from 1169 and Holy Roman Emperor from 1191 until his death. He was also King of Sicily from 1194. Well-educated in Latin, Roman and canon law, he was a patron of poets and a skilled poet himself. He faced conflicts with the House of Welf, attempted to conquer Sicily, extracted ransom from the Byzantine Empire, and aimed to establish hereditary monarchy. He pledged to go on crusade but died before joining.

Adolf Frederick, King of Sweden, reigned from 1751 to 1771. He was the first king from the House of Holstein-Gottorp. His reign was characterized by being a weak monarch and mostly a constitutional figurehead. Despite attempts to reclaim absolute monarchy, he presided over a period of internal peace. His rule saw financial stagnation due to failed mercantilist policies, which were later replaced by economic liberal reforms under the Cap opposition government. Notably, his era saw the enactment of the Freedom of Press Act, reducing censorship except for libel against the monarch or the Church of Sweden.

Maximilian I, Elector of Bavaria, ruled from 1597, obtaining the title of a Prince-elector of the Holy Roman Empire in 1623. A capable monarch, he laid the foundations for absolutist rule by overcoming feudal rights. A devout Catholic, he led the Counter-Reformation and founded the Catholic League. In the Thirty Years' War, he conquered regions and secured electoral titles. The Peace of Westphalia in 1648 affirmed his possessions. He was a key figure in shaping Bavaria's political landscape during a tumultuous period in European history.

William I of Württemberg was a transformative monarch who ascended to the throne during a period of hardship, implementing significant reforms and guiding his kingdom towards constitutional governance. His reign saw the evolution of Württemberg into a unified and well-managed state with a distinctive identity. He also pursued ambitious foreign policy goals, aiming to establish a powerful alliance of German states. While initially seen as a liberal leader, he later adopted more conservative measures following the 1848 revolution.

Valentinian II was a Roman emperor in the Western part of the Roman Empire between AD 375 and 392. Initially serving as a junior co-ruler to his half-brother, he later became the sole ruler with limited powers after overcoming a usurper. Raised to the imperial office at a young age, he faced challenges such as the death of his co-ruler and invasion of Italy. Despite conflicts with his general, he managed to maintain his position until his untimely death.

Cerdic is regarded as a key figure in Anglo-Saxon history, known for his leadership in the Anglo-Saxon settlement of Britain. He is recognized as the founder and first king of Wessex, reigning from around 519 to 534 AD. His legacy is further solidified by the fact that subsequent Wessex kings were believed to have descended from him. Despite ongoing debates about his origin and existence, Cerdic's significance lies in his role as a leader of the Gewissae tribal group and the establishment of Wessex as a prominent kingdom in early medieval England.

Christian I of Denmark was a German noble and Scandinavian monarch who ruled Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under the Kalmar Union. He was also the Duke of Schleswig and Count of Holstein within the Holy Roman Empire. Christian I became king of Denmark in 1448, Norway in 1450, and Sweden in 1457, briefly restoring unity to the Kalmar Union. However, Sweden broke away in 1463, leading to Christian's defeat in a reconquest attempt in 1471.

Frederick Augustus II served as King of Saxony and a member of the House of Wettin. During his reign, he focused on promoting industry, infrastructure, and education within Saxony. He implemented economic reforms and supported the growth of transportation networks, such as railways and canals. Frederick Augustus II also worked to improve the education system by establishing schools and universities. His commitment to modernization and progress contributed to the development and prosperity of Saxony during his time as king.

William II of Holland was the Count of Holland and Zeeland from 1234 until his death. In 1248, he was elected anti-king of Germany and eventually ruled as the sole king from 1254 onwards. He actively participated in various military campaigns, including the War of the Succession of Flanders and the Siege of Damietta during the Seventh Crusade. Known for his diplomatic skills, William II also engaged in negotiations with other European rulers, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in medieval European politics.

Maroboduus, also known as Marbod, was a king of the Marcomanni, a Germanic Suebian tribe. He gained valuable experience during his youth in Rome before returning to lead his people in the face of Roman invasions. Establishing an alliance in the Bohemian forests near the Quadi tribe, he successfully protected his people's territory between the Rhine and Elbe rivers. Maroboduus' leadership and strategic decisions played a crucial role in defending the Marcomanni against external threats and maintaining stability in the region.