Not Just the Tudors

Habsburg Women: Matriarchs of Power

14 snips
Sep 22, 2025
Historian Natalie Donnell sheds light on the often-overlooked Habsburg women who wielded power in the Netherlands. She discusses the formidable Mary of Burgundy, who confronted French aggression, and Margaret of Austria, who raised Charles V. The conversation dives into the complexities of female regents like Mary of Hungary, navigating political turbulence with skill and resilience. Donnell reveals how these women shaped political landscapes, proving that behind every dynasty, there’s a matriarch quietly steering the course of history.
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INSIGHT

Five Generations Of Habsburg Female Power

  • Across five generations Habsburg women governed the Netherlands with real political power and influence.
  • Their roles ranged from defending realms to governing, raising heirs, and shaping dynastic policy.
ANECDOTE

Child Betrothal To Solve Habsburg Debt

  • Mary of Hungary was betrothed at seven as part of a double marriage to secure alliances and debts for Maximilian Habsburg.
  • The contract paired Mary with Lajos (Louis) and linked her brothers into Hungarian dynastic arrangements.
ANECDOTE

Mohács And A Humiliating Royal Death

  • King Lajos (Louis) died disastrously after defeat at Mohács, drowning while fleeing the battlefield.
  • His death left Mary childless and pivoted her into regency roles for the Habsburgs.
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