Why did the Habsburg family usually hold the imperial crown?

The Habsburg family’s long-standing hold on the imperial crown of the Holy Roman Empire was primarily due to the vast wealth and power of their hereditary lands, particularly Austria.1

While the position of German king and Holy Roman emperor was elective, the Habsburgs possessed an aggregate of territories large and rich enough to exert significant influence over the electors. This economic and political strength allowed the dynasty to effectively impose its candidates on the other princes. By the 17th century, this de facto claim to the imperial title had become so established that the electors' fundamental right to choose a new ruler was rendered largely nominal.12

Additionally, the family utilized a highly successful matrimonial policy to expand their influence and dominions, famously summarized by the phrase: "Let others wage wars: you, fortunate Austria, marry". Through strategic marriages, the Habsburgs acquired vast territories, including the Burgundian heritage and Spain, further cementing their status as a dominant European power capable of securing the imperial succession for generations.31