Eberhard II, Duke of Württemberg
A 15th-century German duke whose political maneuvering unified the fractured state of Württemberg, shaping its future for centuries.
1447–1504 (age 57)·Birthday: February 1
Biography
Born into the divided House of Württemberg, Eberhard II spent his early years as Count of Württemberg-Stuttgart, ruling from the city that gave his branch its name. His life was defined by the complex, often hostile, relationship with his cousin Eberhard V of Württemberg-Urach. The landscape of German nobility was one of fragmented power, but Eberhard II played a pivotal role in its consolidation. The 1495 Treaty of Esslingen, orchestrated by his cousin but requiring his assent, elevated the entire territory to a Duchy within the Holy Roman Empire. He briefly became the first Duke of this unified entity in 1496, though his reign was short and turbulent. His rule was contested, leading to his deposition in 1498 by the very estates that had supported unification. This dramatic fall underscored the fragile nature of princely power, but the duchy he helped create endured, becoming a significant force in Swabian politics.
#1 When Eberhard Was Born
The biggest hits of 1447
Eberhard's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1447Born
1452Started school
1460Became a teenager
1463Could drive
1465Could vote
1468Turned 21
1477Turned 30
1487Turned 40
1497Turned 50
1504Died at 57
Key Achievements
- Served as Count of Württemberg-Stuttgart from 1480, governing one half of the divided territory.
- Became the first Duke of a unified Württemberg in 1496 following the imperial elevation of the county.
- His acquiescence to the Treaty of Esslingen was crucial in transforming Württemberg from a county into a duchy.
- His deposition in 1498 highlighted the growing political influence of the Württemberg estates.
Did You Know?
He is numbered both as Eberhard VI (as Count) and Eberhard II (as Duke), reflecting the complex history of Württemberg's lineage.
His reign as Duke lasted less than two years, from July 1496 until his deposition in June 1498.
He was a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece, a prestigious chivalric order of the era.
“The Treaty of Münsingen unites our lands under one rule at last.”
