Ferdinand II (Holy Roman Emperor)

Ferdinand II was Holy Roman Emperor from 1619 to 1637, known for strengthening Catholic power and leading the Catholic side during the Thirty Years’ War—a major European conflict driven by religious and political tensions. He aimed to unify his realms under Catholic rule, which sparked widespread rebellion and warfare across Germany. Despite military successes, his policies intensified religious divisions, causing enormous destruction and loss of life. Ferdinand II was also King of Bohemia and Hungary, and his reign marked a pivotal, tumultuous period in European history, shaping the future balance between Catholic and Protestant forces on the continent.