Privilegium Majus

The Privilegium Minus was a charter issued in 1156 by Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa. It elevated Austria from a margravate to a duchy and granted special privileges to its ruling house, the Babenbergs. These privileges included the right of succession through both male and female lines and the duke's ability to appoint his successor. Austrian dukes were also only required to attend diets in Bavaria and provide military service against Austria's neighbors.1

The Privilegium Majus, a forged charter from 1359 by Rudolf IV of Austria, claimed even greater privileges for Austria and its ruling dynasty, the Habsburgs, including the title of archduke. While initially disputed by Emperor Charles IV, it was later sanctioned by Frederick III. This forged document played a role in establishing the unique status of Austria and the Habsburgs within the Holy Roman Empire.23