Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor

Reign: 1220 – 1250
Life: 1195–1250

Frederick is considered to be one of the most brilliant and powerful figures of the Middle Ages and ruled a vast area, extending from Sicily in the south, through much of Italy, to Germany in the north. As such, he was King of Germany, Italy, and Burgundy. His other royal title was King of Jerusalem by virtue of marriage and his connection with the Sixth Crusade. For his many-sided activities, dynamic personality and talents, Frederick II has been called the greatest of all the German emperors, perhaps even of all medieval rulers.

During Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor's reign, James I of Aragon ruled Spain, Sancho II of Portugal ruled Portugal, and Kujō Yoritsune ruled Japan (Shogunate).

Want to learn more? Further reading

Frederick II: A Medieval Emperor by David Abulafia

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Frederick II: A Medieval Emperor

David Abulafia

Abulafia's acclaimed life of the Stupor Mundi, Sicily, empire, and crusade in one ruler.

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