Henry the Lion

Henry the Lion (1129-1195) was a powerful Duke of Bavaria and Saxony in medieval Germany. He was known for his ambition, military prowess, and the establishment of significant cities, including Lübeck. A key ally of the Holy Roman Empire, he supported Emperor Frederick Barbarossa but later fell out of favor, leading to his exile. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen his territories and promote trade and culture. Henry's legacy includes his contributions to the development of German states and the foundation of the Welf dynasty, influencing European politics for generations.