Western History 89: What events bracketed the Rise and Fall of the Holy Roman Empire?

The superstructure Holy Roman Empire (HRE) played an important role in the politics and religious affairs of Central and Southern Europe between 800 AD until its dissolution by Napoleon I in 1806. The territory associated with the HRE included Modern Day Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Low Countries, Czech Republic, Liechtenstein, Northern Italy, Eastern France (Burgundy) and Western Poland. It reached its greatest extent between 1155 and 1268 under the Hohenstaufen Dynasty and was essentially governed by an elective monarch and a Legislative Diet. Latin was the Principal administration language in earlier years but this would change to reflect regional differences. The population of the HRE stood at about 16 million in and around 1500. This number would increase to 24 million by 1800 (a drop from 26 million+ in 1786).

Four kingdoms are traditionally associated with the HRE. These are – Germany (from 962), Italy (962-1648), Bohemia (from 1002) and Burgundy (1032 to 1378).

Key Dates in the History of the Holy Roman Empire

800 – Charlemagne is crowned Emperor by Pope Leo III on Christmas Day.

887 – Partition of the Empire into Five Kingdoms – West Francia (France), East Francia (Germany), Burgundy, Italy and Lorraine. West Francia will be permanently detached.

919- Rise of German Ottonian Dynasty

962 – German domination of HRE is established when Otto I becomes Holy Roman Emperor.

1027-1125 – Salian dynasty dominates Empire

1138 – Feudal Hierarchy is entrenched with Hohenstaufen Line

1347 – Rise of the Luxembourg Line of Kings. More direct control of Lands.

1356 – Golden Bull confirms Elected Monarchy

1438 – Beginning of Habsburg Control of the Imperial title. Power center is in Austria.

1480 – Limited reform sets up the Reichstag (until 1570)

1519-1556 – Empire’s politics are influenced during this period by Charles V arguably the most powerful sovereign of his age.

1618-1648 – Thirty Years War. Ends with Treaty of Westphalia.

1681-1682 – Empire in struggle against Turks and French.

1740 – Austria/Prussian rivalry weakens Empire

1792 – Further conflict arises from French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars

1806 – Emperor Francis II dissolves Empire denying Napoleon to take the title of Emperor.