Famous Hungarian Emperors & Kings

Joseph II was Holy Roman Emperor and sole ruler of the Habsburg monarchy. He implemented enlightened absolutism policies, aiming to secularize, liberalize, and modernize his territories. Despite facing opposition, he made some territorial gains but isolated Austria with his foreign policy. Joseph II is recognized as one of the great Enlightenment monarchs alongside Catherine the Great and Frederick the Great. He supported the arts and was particularly fond of composers like Mozart and Salieri. His policies, known as Josephinism, had a lasting impact on Austria during his reign.

Matthias Corvinus was a powerful ruler who held multiple titles, including King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia, as well as Duke of Austria. He conducted military campaigns, waged wars against various opponents, and established a professional standing army known as the Black Army of Hungary. Matthias implemented reforms in justice administration, reduced the influence of the nobility, and promoted individuals based on merit. He was a patron of the arts and sciences, with his royal library, the Bibliotheca Corviniana, becoming one of Europe's largest book collections.

Sigismund of Luxembourg was a significant figure in European history, serving as Holy Roman Emperor and King of various regions. He played a key role in political and religious matters, such as the Council of Constance and the Crusade of Nicopolis. Despite facing challenges like the Hussite Wars, he showed vision and grandeur in his leadership. While his reforms were hindered by external difficulties and financial constraints, his efforts paved the way for later imperial reform under the Habsburgs. Scholars now recognize his reign for its cultural developments and imperial achievements.

Leopold I was a Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia, known for his long reign of 46 years and 9 months. He was a composer and a significant patron of music. His reign was marked by conflicts with the Ottoman Empire in the Great Turkish War and rivalry with Louis XIV of France. Leopold fought in multiple wars against France, seeking to secure his son Charles's claim to the Spanish inheritance, leading to the War of the Spanish Succession, which continued after his death until 1714.

Stephen I of Hungary was the last Grand Prince of the Hungarians and the first King of Hungary. He fought for the throne against his relative, Koppány, and unified the Carpathian Basin through wars against semi-independent tribes. He established archbishoprics, bishoprics, and monasteries, creating an independent Church in Hungary. Stephen implemented a system of local administration based on counties and fortresses. His reign brought peace to Hungary, making it a vital route for pilgrims and merchants.

Ferdinand III, Holy Roman Emperor, was a significant figure during the Thirty Years' War, ascending the throne during a crucial period. Despite facing military defeats and declining power, he adopted lenient policies to end the war quickly. He departed from traditional ideas of divine rights and worked towards achieving peace. While his authority as emperor weakened post-war, his influence in Bohemia, Hungary, and Austria remained strong. Notably, he was the first Habsburg monarch recognized as a musical composer, showcasing his diverse talents and interests.

Maximilian II was Holy Roman Emperor from 1564 until his death in 1576. He was King of Bohemia, Germany, Hungary, and Croatia. His rule was marked by the confessionalization process post Peace of Augsburg, attempting to bridge the denominational divide with Lutheran Imperial estates. He grappled with Ottoman–Habsburg conflicts and tensions with Spanish Habsburg relatives. While unsuccessful in achieving major goals of government reform, religious unity, and expelling Turks from Hungary, his religious tolerance and support for arts and sciences fostered a fragile peace.

Charles I of Hungary was King of Hungary and Croatia from 1308 until his death in 1342. He faced challenges to his rule upon his ascension but gradually strengthened his position through military victories and political alliances. Charles implemented innovative administrative and economic reforms, such as the establishment of the Order of Saint George and promoting gold mining. He played a key role in mediating diplomatic relations between neighboring monarchs and laying the groundwork for the achievements of his successor, Louis the Great.

Andrew II of Hungary ruled as King of Hungary and Croatia from 1205 to 1235. He faced challenges such as opposition from noblemen and conflicts with neighboring princes. Andrew introduced new grants policies and was the first Hungarian monarch to bear the title "King of Halych and Lodomeria." He participated in the Fifth Crusade, but it was unsuccessful. Andrew issued the Golden Bull of 1222, confirming privileges for royal servants, leading to the rise of the nobility in Hungary.

Leopold II was the 44th Holy Roman Emperor, King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia, and Archduke of Austria from 1790 to 1792. He also served as the Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1765 to 1790. Known for his moderate approach to enlightened absolutism, Leopold abolished the death penalty and torture in Tuscany in 1786, making it the first nation in modern history to do so. Despite his short reign, he is highly respected and considered one of the most shrewd and sensible monarchs in history.

Béla IV of Hungary was crowned King in 1214 and faced opposition from his father. He was appointed Duke of Slavonia in 1220 and governed Transylvania from 1226. Béla supported Christian missions among the Cumans and adopted the title of King of Cumania in 1233. He succeeded his father in 1235 and aimed to restore royal authority. Béla survived the Mongol invasion in 1241 and implemented reforms to prepare for a second invasion. He established defensive alliances and expanded Hungary's territory.

Albert II of Germany, also known as Albert the Magnanimous, was elected King of the Romans and later became Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. He was a member of the House of Habsburg and inherited the titles of Duke of Austria and King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia through his marriage. Additionally, he held a claim to the Duchy of Luxembourg. As a ruler, Albert II played a significant role in the politics and governance of Central Europe during the early 15th century.

Francis II Rákóczi was a Hungarian nobleman, leader of the Rákóczi's War of Independence against the Habsburgs. He held the titles of Prince of Transylvania, Imperial Prince, and member of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Refusing the royal crown offered by the Hungarian parliament, he chose the title "Ruling Prince of Hungary" during the war of independence to signify his commitment to liberation rather than personal ambition. Today, he is revered as a national hero in Hungary for his role in the fight for independence.

Louis I of Hungary was King of Hungary, Croatia, and Poland. He inherited a centralized kingdom and rich treasury, launching crusades against the Lithuanians and restoring royal power in Croatia. He expanded his authority towards the Black Sea by defeating a Tatar army. He waged wars against various neighboring territories, restoring Hungarian monarchs' authority over lost territories. Louis attempted to convert pagan or Orthodox subjects to Catholicism, established a university, and issued privileges to noblemen in both Hungary and Poland.

Władysław III of Poland was King of Poland, Supreme Duke of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, and King of Hungary and Croatia. He faced challenges to his rule, including disputes over his legitimacy and conflicts such as the Polish-Teutonic War. Władysław sought to expand Polish influence into neighboring territories and was elected King of Hungary and Croatia, facing opposition from the Habsburgs. He led a Crusade against the Ottoman Empire but tragically perished in battle, leaving a mixed legacy in Poland, Hungary, and Bulgaria.

Béla III of Hungary ruled as King from 1172 to 1196, inheriting the throne from his elder brother. He initially faced conflict with the Byzantine Empire over territories, which led to his temporary relocation to Constantinople. Despite his earlier engagements, he eventually returned to Hungary and was crowned King with papal approval. Béla engaged in military campaigns to reclaim lost territories and promoted administrative reforms, including the establishment of the Royal Chancery and the construction of the first Gothic architecture in Central Europe.

Béla I of Hungary was a king who descended from the Árpád dynasty. He left Hungary in 1031 and settled in Poland before returning at the invitation of his brother Andrew. Andrew assigned him the administration of a duchy within the Kingdom of Hungary. Tensions arose between the brothers when Andrew crowned his own son as king, leading to Béla rebelling and ultimately dethroning Andrew in 1060. Béla implemented monetary reform and successfully quelled a pagan uprising in Hungary before his untimely death due to injuries sustained from a collapsing throne.

Béla II of Hungary, also known as Béla the Blind, ascended to the throne amidst opposition, marked by violent purges to solidify his rule. He faced challenges from pretenders seeking to dethrone him, notably defeating King Coloman's alleged son Boris in 1132. During his reign, Hungary pursued an active foreign policy, expanding its influence as evidenced by Bosnia and Split acknowledging Béla's suzerainty around 1136. Béla's professional life was characterized by strategic political maneuvering, military prowess, and efforts to maintain and expand Hungary's power.

Vladislaus II was King of Bohemia from 1471 to 1516 and King of Hungary and of Croatia from 1490 to 1516. He inherited the throne of Bohemia with the support of the Diet and later divided the Crown of Bohemia with Matthias. In Hungary, he claimed the throne after Matthias's death and made alliances to secure his position. Vladislaus focused on state administration, approved decisions of the Royal Council, and dealt with challenges such as Ottoman raids and annexations.

Coloman the Learned, also known as the Book-Lover, was King of Hungary and Croatia. He was prepared for a church career before becoming bishop. After his uncle's death, he returned to Hungary, where he was crowned king. Coloman faced challenges from his brother throughout his reign, ultimately seizing his brother's duchy and having him and his son blinded. Despite mixed portrayals, he was known for his expertise in governance and legislation. His decrees, which covered taxation, trade, and interfaith relations, remained influential for over a century.

Louis II was the King of Hungary, Croatia, and Bohemia from 1516 to 1526. His reign was marked by conflict with the Ottoman Empire, ultimately leading to his death in the Battle of Mohács. He fought bravely against the Ottomans during this battle, but unfortunately, it ended in defeat for the Hungarian forces. The Ottoman victory at Mohács resulted in the annexation of significant territories in Hungary, impacting the region's political landscape for years to come.

Ladislaus I of Hungary was King of Hungary from 1077 and King of Croatia from 1091. He succeeded his elder brother as king and faced resistance from Solomon and King Henry IV of Germany. Ladislaus supported Henry IV's opponents during the Investiture Controversy. He focused on restoring public safety, introducing severe legislation. Ladislaus expanded the Kingdom of Hungary into Croatia and secured the eastern borders through victories over the Pechenegs and Cumans. He had a strained relationship with the Holy See regarding Croatia's ownership. Ladislaus was canonized as a saint in 1192.

John Zápolya, also known as Szapolyai, served as the Voivode of Transylvania from 1510 to 1526 before being crowned as King of Hungary, reigning from 1526 to 1540. His rule was contested by Archduke Ferdinand I, who also laid claim to the Hungarian throne. Zápolya's professional life was marked by political and territorial struggles, as he navigated complex power dynamics in the region. His reign as King of Hungary was characterized by ongoing disputes and challenges to his authority.

Gabriel Bethlen was Prince of Transylvania and Duke of Opole. He was King-elect of Hungary but did not fully reign. Bethlen, backed by the Ottomans, led his Calvinist principality against the Habsburgs and their Catholic allies. He engaged in numerous military campaigns and diplomatic negotiations to advance his interests and maintain Transylvanian autonomy. Bethlen's rule was marked by strategic alliances and conflicts with neighboring powers, as he navigated the complex political landscape of 17th-century Central Europe.

Andrew I of Hungary ruled as King from 1046 to 1060 after an exile period. He overthrew King Peter Orseolo following a revolt by pagan Hungarians. Andrew strengthened Catholicism in Hungary and defended its independence against the Holy Roman Empire. His efforts to secure the throne for his son resulted in a revolt by his brother, Béla, who forcibly removed Andrew from power in 1060. Andrew suffered severe injuries during the conflict and passed away before his brother's coronation.

Ladislaus IV of Hungary ascended to the throne at a young age and faced challenges from rival baron factions. He allied with Rudolf I of Germany in a successful battle against Ottokar II of Bohemia, but struggled to restore royal authority in Hungary. His support for the pagan Cumans led to conflict with the papal legate and his excommunication. Ladislaus faced internal unrest, Mongol invasions, and accusations of inciting attacks. His rule was marked by instability and ultimately ended in assassination.

Géza II of Hungary ruled as King of Hungary and Croatia, facing challenges such as pretenders to the throne and conflicts with neighboring powers. He actively participated in various battles and alliances, including supporting allies in battles for control of Kiev and waging wars against the Byzantine Empire. Géza also engaged in diplomatic maneuvers, such as supporting different papal factions. His reign saw the arrival of Western European knights, Muslim warriors, and the ancestors of the Transylvanian Saxons to Hungary, reflecting a diverse cultural landscape.

Stephen V of Hungary was appointed Duke of Transylvania and Styria by King Béla IV. Facing opposition in Styria, he was expelled by local noblemen and Ottokar II of Bohemia. He forced his father to cede eastern Hungarian lands and declared himself junior king. A civil war erupted between father and son, leading to a peace treaty in 1266. Stephen succeeded his father, but faced challenges from his sister and advisors. He successfully defended Hungary against a Bohemian invasion and dealt with rebellions before his untimely death.

Andrew III of Hungary was elected King of Hungary and Croatia in 1290. As the last male member of the House of Árpád, he faced challenges from various pretenders to the throne. He issued a coronation diploma confirming the privileges of noblemen and clergy. During his reign, Hungary experienced constant anarchy with powerful families rebelling against his rule. His death led to a civil war that lasted over two decades, ending with the victory of Mary of Hungary's grandson, Charles Robert.

György Rákóczi II was a Hungarian nobleman who served as Prince of Transylvania from 1648 until his death in 1660. He played a key role in the political and military affairs of Transylvania, actively participating in conflicts with the Ottoman Empire and the Habsburg Monarchy. Rákóczi was known for his efforts to maintain Transylvania's autonomy and defend its interests against external threats. He was a skilled diplomat and military leader, navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of his time with strategic acumen and determination.

Géza, Grand Prince of the Hungarians, ruled from the early 970s. He established peace with the Holy Roman Empire and consolidated his authority through ruthless means. Known for supporting Christian missionaries, he himself was baptized and took the name Stephen. Despite his baptism, he continued pagan practices. Géza's reign set the stage for his son Stephen to become the first King of Hungary in 1000 or 1001.

Emeric of Hungary, also known as Henry or Imre, ruled as King of Hungary and Croatia from 1196 to 1204. He ascended the throne following his father's death and faced challenges from his rebellious brother, Andrew. Emeric cooperated with the Holy See against the Bosnian Church and expanded his suzerainty over Serbia. Despite his efforts, he was unable to prevent the Republic of Venice from seizing Zadar and the rise of Bulgaria along his kingdom's southern frontiers. Emeric was known for adopting the "Árpád stripes" as his coat of arms and using the title of King of Serbia.

Peter Orseolo, known as Peter the Venetian, served as the King of Hungary twice. Initially succeeding his uncle, King Stephen I, in 1038, Peter's reign was marked by favoritism towards foreign courtiers, leading to his deposition in 1041 following an uprising. He was restored to the throne with the support of Henry III, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1044. During his second reign, Peter accepted the Emperor's suzerainty until a pagan uprising in 1046 resulted in his execution by order of his successor, Andrew I.

Stephen III of Hungary was crowned king in 1162 following his father's death, but faced challenges from his uncles. He was forced into exile in Austria but later returned and seized Pressburg. After defeating his uncle in battle, he faced further conflicts with the Byzantine Empire over control of territories. Stephen III waged wars against the Byzantines but was unable to defeat them. He is credited with creating the "Székesfehérvár laws" and negotiating a concordat with the Holy See. He died childless.