Frederick I, Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach (b. 1460)

Frederick I of Ansbach and Bayreuth, a name that resonates within the grand narrative of the House of Hohenzollern, was born on a spring day, the 8th of May in 1460. His life journey concluded on the 4th of April, 1536, having spanned a dynamic period of European history, a time marked by both profound change and enduring traditions. While widely known as Frederick I, historical records also refer to him as Frederick V, and in his native German, he bore the distinguished appellations of Friedrich V. von Brandenburg-Ansbach-Kulmbach or simply Friedrich der Ältere, which translates evocatively to 'Frederick the Elder'. These various names underscore his prominent standing and the interconnectedness of the German princely houses of the era.

His story began in Ansbach, a city that would become intrinsically linked with one of his most significant inheritances. Frederick was the eldest son of an extraordinarily influential figure, Albert III, who held the title of Margrave of Brandenburg. Albert, often celebrated as Albert Achilles for his exceptional martial and administrative prowess, was a cornerstone of the burgeoning Hohenzollern power. Frederick’s mother was Albert III’s second wife, the astute Anna, a daughter of Frederick II, the Elector of Saxony. This formidable parentage meant that Frederick I carried the distinguished bloodlines of two of the Holy Roman Empire's most formidable dynasties: the ambitious Hohenzollerns, who were steadily expanding their influence, and the venerable Wettins, rulers of the affluent Saxon lands.

The intricate tapestry of medieval and early modern aristocratic families often featured a complex web of siblings and half-siblings, each vying for influence or inheriting distinct portions of their patrimony. Frederick was no exception; he shared an elder half-brother, John Cicero, who would ascend to the powerful position of Elector of Brandenburg, wielding one of the most crucial votes in the election of the Holy Roman Emperor. Frederick’s own path to leadership involved a two-stage succession. He first took up the mantle as Margrave of Ansbach in 1486, following the passing of his esteemed father, Albert III. A few years later, in 1495, the Margraviate of Bayreuth also came under his stewardship, an inheritance that occurred after the death of his younger brother, Siegmund. This sequential acquisition of two distinct margraviates highlights the Hohenzollern family’s strategic territorial divisions and their enduring presence across various regions of the Holy Roman Empire.

Frequently Asked Questions about Frederick I of Ansbach and Bayreuth

Who was Frederick I of Ansbach and Bayreuth?

Frederick I was a prominent member of the House of Hohenzollern who reigned as Margrave of Ansbach from 1486 and Margrave of Bayreuth from 1495 until his death. His life bridged the late medieval and early modern periods in the Holy Roman Empire.

What other names was he known by?

He was also referred to as Frederick V. In German, his names included Friedrich V. von Brandenburg-Ansbach-Kulmbach and Friedrich der Ältere, meaning 'Frederick the Elder'.

When was Frederick I born and when did he die?

Frederick I was born on 8 May 1460 and passed away on 4 April 1536.

Who were his parents?

His father was Albert III, Margrave of Brandenburg, and his mother was Anna, daughter of Frederick II, Elector of Saxony. This lineage connected him to both the powerful Hohenzollern and Wettin dynasties.

How did he come to rule Ansbach and Bayreuth?

Frederick I succeeded his father, Albert III, as Margrave of Ansbach in 1486. He later inherited the Margraviate of Bayreuth in 1495 following the death of his younger brother, Siegmund, thereby consolidating his rule over these two important territories.

What was his relationship with John Cicero of Brandenburg?

John Cicero was Frederick I's elder half-brother. John Cicero later became the Elector of Brandenburg, a highly influential position within the Holy Roman Empire, holding one of the votes for the imperial election.

What do the titles 'Margrave' and 'Elector' signify?

A Margrave was originally a military governor of a border province (a 'march') within the Holy Roman Empire, a title that evolved into a hereditary princely rank with significant regional authority. An Elector was one of a select group of powerful princes or archbishops who held the exclusive right to elect the Holy Roman Emperor, making it one of the most prestigious and influential titles in the Empire.