Jobst of Moravia, ruler of Moravia, King of the Romans

Jobst of Moravia (also known by his Czech names Jošt Moravský or Jošt Lucemburský, and German names Jo(b)st or Jodokus von Mähren), born around 1354 and passing away on January 18, 1411, was a highly influential figure of the late Middle Ages. A key member of the esteemed House of Luxembourg, a prominent European dynasty, Jobst navigated and largely dominated the complex political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire in the early 15th century through his ambition and remarkable versatility as a ruler.

The Ascent of Jobst of Moravia: A Member of the House of Luxembourg

As the son of John Henry, Margrave of Moravia, and a nephew of the formidable Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV, Jobst of Moravia inherited a significant position within one of Europe's most powerful ruling families. His lineage directly connected him to the imperial line, providing a strong foundation for his political aspirations and enabling his deep involvement in the imperial politics of his era.

Key Princely Titles and Territories Held by Jobst

• Margrave of Moravia (from 1375): Upon the death of his father, John Henry, Jobst succeeded him as Margrave of Moravia. This territory, an important component of the Lands of the Bohemian Crown, provided him with a substantial power base and resources within the Holy Roman Empire.

• Duke of Luxembourg (from 1388): Jobst inherited the Duchy of Luxembourg from his cousin, Wenceslaus IV, who was also King of Bohemia and King of the Romans. This acquisition was crucial as Luxembourg was the ancestral homeland of his powerful dynasty, further cementing his family's influence and his own prestige.

• Elector of Brandenburg (from 1388): Significantly, Jobst also became Elector of Brandenburg, a title he obtained through complex dynastic arrangements, often involving transactions or pledges from other Luxembourg family members, notably his cousin Sigismund. The acquisition of Brandenburg was a strategic masterstroke, granting him one of the seven crucial electoral votes required to choose the King of the Romans, thereby directly involving him in the highest level of imperial politics.

An Ambitious and Versatile Ruler on the Imperial Stage

Jobst's career was characterized by his relentless ambition and political acumen. He operated during a tumultuous period in the Holy Roman Empire, marked by internal conflicts within the Luxembourg dynasty itself and profound instability surrounding the German throne. His versatility allowed him to adapt to changing alliances, manage multiple territories effectively, and continuously pursue opportunities for political advancement.

Dominating Struggles and the Contested German Throne

The early 15th century saw the Holy Roman Empire deeply divided, particularly due to the ineffective rule of Jobst's cousin, Emperor Wenceslaus IV. Wenceslaus's inability to maintain order led to his deposition as King of the Romans in 1400, followed by the election of Rupert of the Palatinate. This period of political vacuum and contested authority created fertile ground for ambitious princes like Jobst.

Jobst of Moravia actively participated in these power struggles. His strategic acquisition of the Electorate of Brandenburg made him a kingmaker. In 1410, following Rupert's death, a highly contested election for the King of the Romans took place. In an unprecedented turn of events, the electors were split, leading to two separate elections. Jobst himself was elected King of Germany (King of the Romans) on September 20, 1410, by a faction of electors. This put him in direct competition with his cousin Sigismund, who was elected by another faction, and the still-reigning Wenceslaus IV, who despite his deposition, continued to claim the title. This unique situation resulted in three simultaneous claimants to the imperial throne, underscoring the severe fragmentation and political chaos of the time.

Legacy and Impact

Jobst's reign as King of the Romans was remarkably brief. He died on January 18, 1411, just four months after his election. His untimely death proved to be a pivotal moment, as it effectively resolved the unprecedented three-way struggle for the German throne. With Jobst out of the picture, the path was cleared for his cousin Sigismund to become the sole King of the Romans, ultimately leading to Sigismund's coronation as Holy Roman Emperor in 1433.

Frequently Asked Questions about Jobst of Moravia

Who was Jobst of Moravia?

Jobst of Moravia was a powerful late medieval ruler and a prominent member of the House of Luxembourg. He held significant titles including Margrave of Moravia, Duke of Luxembourg, and Elector of Brandenburg. Notably, he was also briefly elected King of Germany (King of the Romans) in 1410.

What was the "King of the Romans" title?

The "King of the Romans" (or King of Germany) was the title of the elected ruler of the Holy Roman Empire. This individual was considered the designated successor to the Holy Roman Emperor and typically awaited papal coronation in Rome to formally assume the title of Emperor. It signified the supreme secular authority within the Empire prior to the imperial coronation.

Why was Jobst's election as King of the Romans significant?

Jobst's election in 1410 was significant because it occurred amidst profound political instability and a deep split among the imperial electors. His election, alongside that of his cousin Sigismund, created a rare situation where three individuals simultaneously claimed the royal title (including the still-living Wenceslaus IV), highlighting the severe divisions and power struggles within the Holy Roman Empire at the turn of the 15th century.

How did Jobst of Moravia influence the Luxembourg dynasty?

As a powerful and ambitious member, Jobst played a critical role in the dynastic politics of the House of Luxembourg. By acquiring and consolidating key territories like Moravia, Luxembourg, and especially the Electorate of Brandenburg, he significantly enhanced the family's power and influence within the Empire, directly participating in and often dominating the struggles for imperial supremacy.