Palatine Electoral State

The Palatine Electoral State, also known as the Electorate of the Palatinate, was a significant territory in the Holy Roman Empire from the 16th to the 18th centuries. It was one of the key regions involved in the politics of the empire, with its ruler holding the title of Elector, which allowed them to vote in the election of the Holy Roman Emperor. The Palatinate was known for its cultural capital, Heidelberg, and played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War. Today, it mainly corresponds to the modern German region of Rhineland-Palatinate.