Albert of Prussia

Full Name: Albrecht von Hohenzollern
Profession: Duke of Prussia

Nationality:

Biography: Albert of Prussia was a German prince and the first ruler of the Duchy of Prussia. Albert shifted from being the grand master of the Teutonic Knights to establishing Protestantism in the region, secularizing the monastic state and converting it into the Duchy of Prussia.

Albert was born into the nobility, the son of Frederick I and Sophia Jagiellon, in Ansbach. His early education prepared him for a life in the Church, yet his path led him to engage in political and military affairs, including a significant journey with Emperor Maximilian I to Italy.

In 1511, Albert's career took a decisive turn when he became grand master of the Teutonic Knights, a position from which he would later emerge as a secular ruler. Influenced by the teachings of Martin Luther and Andreas Osiander, Albert ultimately embraced Lutheranism.

The move towards Protestantism set Albert at odds with the Catholic Church and prompted him to transform the territories of the Teutonic Order. In 1525, he established the Duchy of Prussia by pledging fealty to his uncle, King Sigismund I of Poland, marking a pivotal secularization of his dominion.

Albert not only introduced Lutheranism but also prioritized education, founding the University of Königsberg in 1544, and he persisted in his leadership through various political and religious challenges. He continued to rule until his death, after which his son Albert Frederick succeeded him.

Albert’s personal life saw him marry twice, first to Dorothea of Denmark and later to Anna Maria of Brunswick-Lüneburg, and he fathered several children. He maintained a wide correspondence with significant figures of his era and was recognized as a patron of education and a central figure in the Protestant Reformation.

Born: May 17, 1490
Birthplace: Ansbach
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: March 20, 1568 (aged 77)