George of Podebrady

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.