Rudolf IV
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Rudolf IV was the Duke of Austria from 1358 to 1365. He was known for his energetic and ambitious rule. During his reign, Rudolf IV initiated significant projects, including the rebuilding of St. Stephen's Cathedral in the Gothic style and the founding of the University of Vienna in 1365. He also attempted to elevate Austria's status by forging the Privilegium Majus, which claimed extensive privileges and the title of archduke for Austria and its dynasty. This act led to a dispute with Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. Rudolf IV also managed to acquire the Tirol for the house of Austria.
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AustriaAccession of the HabsburgsThroughout his short reign (1358–65), Rudolf IV showed himself extremely energetic and ambitious. He started to rebuild St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the Gothic style, and he founded the University of Vienna (1365). With these two projects, he imitated and rivaled his father-in-law, the Holy Roman emperor Charles IV, at Prague.
Read MoreThroughout his short reign (1358–65), Rudolf IV showed himself extremely energetic and ambitious. He started to rebuild St. Stephen’s Cathedral in the Gothic style, and he founded the University of Vienna (1365). With these two projects, he imitated and rivaled his father-in-law, the Holy Roman emperor Charles IV, at Prague.
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GermanyCharles IV and the Golden BullRudolf IV of Austria ordered his chancery to fabricate a series of imperial charters, including two from Julius Caesar and Nero, as evidence of his virtual independence of the empire. Charles IV submitted them for examination to the Italian humanist Petrarch, who declared the charters…
Read MoreRudolf IV of Austria ordered his chancery to fabricate a series of imperial charters, including two from Julius Caesar and Nero, as evidence of his virtual independence of the empire. Charles IV submitted them for examination to the Italian humanist Petrarch, who declared the charters…
Read More