How did Rudolf I found the Habsburg dynasty?

Rudolf I of Habsburg was a German nobleman who became King of the Romans in 1273, ending a long period of imperial vacancy. He expanded his family's territory through military campaigns, political alliances, and strategic victories against King Ottokar II of Bohemia. His reign established control over Austria, Styria, and Carinthia, laying the foundation for the enduring power of the Habsburg dynasty.

What we know

• Rudolf I of Habsburg lived from 1 May 1218 to 15 July 1291 and reigned as King of the Romans from 1273 until his death. [1, 2]
• He expanded his power as Count of Habsburg through military campaigns, political alliances, and the construction of Neuhabsburg Castle. [2]
• His election in 1273 ended decades of imperial vacancy and division known as the Great Interregnum. [2]
• Rudolf secured Habsburg control over Austria, Styria, and Carinthia after defeating King Ottokar II of Bohemia. [2]

Where to go next

• compared withWho was King Ottokar II of Bohemia?
• what caused itWhat was the Great Interregnum?
• what followedHow did Albert I succeed Rudolf I?
• how it workedWhat role did Neuhabsburg Castle play?
• the bigger pictureList of monarchs of Germany
• an unexpected connectionWhy was Rudolf's son known as Albert the One-eyed?Rudolf's eldest son and successor Albert I bore a distinct facial disfigurement and a permanent snarl resulting from a battle injury.

Sources

• [1]Rudolph I of Germany (Wikidata Q76956) · CC0 1.0
• [2]Rudolf I of Germany · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [3]Albert I of Germany · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [4]Rudolf I of Bohemia · CC BY-SA 4.0
• [5]List of monarchs of Germany · CC BY-SA 4.0