Ferdinand II, Holy Roman Emperor

Ferdinand II, Holy Roman Emperor (July 9, 1578 - February 15, 1637), ruled 1620-1637. Originally Archduke of Styria, his appointment as King of Bohemia was one of the causes of the Thirty Years War.

He was the son of Karl II of Austria (1540-1590) and his wife Maria Anna of Bavaria (1551-1608).

He was the leading champion of the Roman Catholic Counter-Reformation and of absolutist rule during the Thirty Years' War.

His first wife was Maria Anna of Bavaria (1574 - 1616), by whom he was father of four children, including Ferdinand III (1608-1657). His second wife was Eleonore of Gonzaga (1598 - 1655).

Preceded by: Mathias, Holy Roman Emperor

List of German Kings and Emperors

Succeeded by: Ferdinand III, Holy Roman Emperor