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 |