Charles IV of Luxembourg vs George of Podebrady

Charles, Margrave of Moravia and grandson of Henry VII, was elected King of Germany by a faction of electors opposed to Louis IV. His election was supported by Pope Clement VI, leading to a double kingship.

Charles IV founded the University of Prague (Charles University), the first university in Central Europe. It became a major center of learning and culture, attracting scholars from across Europe.

Charles IV was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in Rome by a papal legate. His coronation was the first by a pope in decades and marked a reconciliation between the empire and papacy.

Charles IV issued the Golden Bull, a constitutional document that regulated the election of the German king by seven prince-electors. It established a fixed electoral college and reduced papal influence, remaining in effect until 1806.

Following the death of King Ladislaus the Posthumous, the Bohemian Diet elected George of Pod

George proposed a treaty for a European league of Christian princes to maintain peace and coordinate defense against the Ottoman Empire. The plan included a common council and army. It was not implemented but is considered an early precursor to the European Union.

Pope Paul II excommunicated George for his Hussite beliefs and refusal to enforce Catholic uniformity. The pope declared a crusade against Bohemia and supported the rival claim of Matthias Corvinus of Hungary. This led to a war that weakened George's position.

Matthias Corvinus of Hungary invaded Bohemia, claiming the throne with papal support. George's forces fought a defensive war, losing territory. The conflict ended inconclusively, but George was forced to recognize Matthias as heir to the Bohemian crown.

On his deathbed, George negotiated a compromise with the Catholic nobility of Bohemia. He agreed to recognize Vladislaus II of Poland as his successor, ensuring a Catholic king but preserving religious tolerance for Hussites. This helped prevent further civil war.