Deaths on January 13

Frederick I of Austria (b. 1286)

Frederick the Fair, known in German as Friedrich der Schöne, or sometimes simply referred to as Frederick the Handsome, was a prominent figure from the House of Habsburg whose life spanned from approximately 1289 to January 13, 1330. His multifaceted political career saw him serve as the hereditary Duke of Austria and Styria from 1308. More significantly, he became embroiled in a bitter dynastic struggle that led him to be recognized as an anti-king of Germany from 1314 until 1325, eventually culminating in a unique co-kingship alongside his rival until his death.

Born into the powerful House of Habsburg, Frederick was the second son of Albert I, who himself had been King of Germany (King of the Romans) from 1298 to 1308. Following his father's assassination in 1308, Frederick, alongside his younger brother Leopold I, inherited the duchies of Austria and Styria, key territories that formed the dynastic core of the rising Habsburg power. This familial background provided him with a strong claim and significant resources when the imperial throne became vacant.

The pivotal period of Frederick's life began in 1314 with the contentious election for the King of Germany. The Prince-electors were deeply divided, resulting in a double election. One faction, primarily led by the Archbishop of Cologne and the Elector Palatine, elected Louis IV of Bavaria from the House of Wittelsbach. Simultaneously, another powerful faction, including the Archbishop of Mainz and the King of Bohemia, elected Frederick. This unprecedented schism plunged the Holy Roman Empire into a prolonged civil war, with both contenders vying for legitimate imperial authority.

The protracted conflict between Frederick and Louis IV culminated in the decisive Battle of Mühldorf on September 28, 1322. Despite an initially strong position, Frederick's forces suffered a crushing defeat, and he was captured along with over 1,000 Habsburg and allied nobles. His imprisonment by Louis IV dramatically shifted the balance of power. However, facing political pressure from the Pope and within the Empire, Louis IV eventually released Frederick in 1325. This release was contingent upon the extraordinary Treaty of Trausnitz, which established a unique political arrangement: Frederick was to recognize Louis IV as the legitimate King of Germany and would serve as his co-king, assisting in the governance of the Empire, particularly its eastern territories. This rare power-sharing agreement, though largely symbolic for Frederick in terms of imperial power, allowed him to retain his ducal titles and provided a temporary resolution to the destructive civil conflict. Frederick honorably upheld his oath to the treaty, even returning to captivity when his brother Leopold failed to secure Louis's release as promised.

Frederick the Fair died on January 13, 1330, at Gutenstein Castle in Lower Austria. His death brought an end to the unusual co-kingship arrangement and marked a significant point in the ongoing power dynamics between the Habsburgs and Wittelsbachs within the Holy Roman Empire. Though he did not achieve sole emperorship, his life profoundly impacted medieval German history, highlighting the fierce dynastic rivalries and complex electoral politics of the era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick the Fair

Who was Frederick the Fair?

Frederick the Fair, also known as Friedrich der Schöne or Frederick the Handsome, was a Habsburg duke of Austria and Styria who famously contested the German royal title with Louis IV of Bavaria, leading to his designation as an anti-king and later a co-king of Germany.

Why was he called "the Fair" or "the Handsome"?

The epithet "der Schöne" in German, translated as "the Fair" or "the Handsome," likely referred to his physical attractiveness or his perceived noble and honorable character, particularly in his dealings and adherence to oaths, such as the one he made to Louis IV.

What was an "anti-king" in medieval Germany?

An "anti-king" (or "rival king") was a claimant to the German throne during the Holy Roman Empire who was elected by a dissenting faction of prince-electors, usually in opposition to a previously or simultaneously elected king. This often led to civil war, as seen with Frederick's rivalry against Louis IV.

What was the significance of the Battle of Mühldorf?

The Battle of Mühldorf (1322) was a decisive conflict in the struggle between Frederick the Fair and Louis IV. Frederick's defeat and capture at this battle significantly weakened his claim and ultimately led to the unique co-kingship agreement between the two rivals.

What was the "co-kingship" arrangement?

The co-kingship was an extraordinary political compromise formalized by the Treaty of Trausnitz in 1325. After his defeat and capture, Frederick the Fair was released by Louis IV on the condition that he acknowledge Louis as the legitimate King of Germany and serve alongside him as a co-king, assisting in the administration of the Empire.