The History of the German Empire

Of the 24 German kings, between 800 and 1254, 22 came from just four families. It became increasingly obvious that only a few princely dynasties had both the desire and the resources to be serious candidates. By 1300 it was clear that only the vitals' backs, Luxembourgs and Habsburgs remained serious contenders. Despite evolving as an elective monarchy, the empire enjoyed considerable political continuity.