Frederick III, Holy German Emperor

Frederick III (1186-1232) was Holy German Emperor for eight years, from 1224 until his death. His relatively short reign led to him being known as the first of the "Three Lost Emperors", given the early deaths of his son Otto and grandson Charles.

Frederick was a fairly weak Emperor. His court was perceived by opponents as being populated exclusively by the West Francian element of the Reich, epitomised by his Empress, Catherine of Bruges. In 1231, open conflict broke out with the beginning of the Bohemian Revolt. Frederick was killed in battle by the Bohemian rebels, although his body was treated with great dignity and a two year ceasefire followed his death.