Conrad II

Reign: 1027 – 1039
Life: 990–1039

He extended his influence beyond his inherited lands, as he came into favour of the princes of the kingdom. Conrad II adopted many aspects of his Ottonian predecessor Henry II regarding the role and organisation of the Church as well as general rulership practices, which in turn had been associated with Charlemagne. In Italy, he initially relied on the bishops (mostly of German origin) to maintain imperial power. Beginning with his second Italian expedition in 1036, he changed his strategy and managed to win the support of the valvassores (lesser nobles) and the military elite, who challenged the power of the bishops. His reign marked a high point of medieval imperial rule during a relatively peaceful period for the empire. Upon the death of the childless King Rudolph III of Burgundy in 1032, Conrad claimed dominion over the Kingdom of Burgundy, conquered it with German and Italian troops, and incorporated it into the empire.

During Conrad II's reign, Anund Jacob ruled Sweden, Cnut the Great ruled England, and Emperor Renzong of Song ruled China.

Want to learn more? Further reading

The Holy Roman Empire by Peter H. Wilson

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The World During Their Reign

The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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The Holy Roman Empire

Peter H. Wilson

Wilson on Conrad II's restoration of imperial authority in the eleventh century.

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