THE NOMINATION OF CZECH SOVEREIGN PŘEMYSL OTAKAR II FOR THE GERMAN THRONE AND HIS PASSIVE PARTICIPATION IN THE ELECTION RACE OF 1256–1257

The article traces the twists and turns concerning the nomination of Czech Sovereign Přemysl Otakar II for the German throne, and his role in the election race of 1256 – 1257. In preparing this study, the author investigated Annals and Chronicles, created in different regions of the Holy Roman Empire. In the middle of the 13th century the Czech Kingdom gradually reached the level of European states in all spheres of social and political life, its authority and power increased. In view of favourable international context in Central Europe and the successful economic development, Czech Sovereigns from the Přemyslid dynasty have begun to play important roles on the international scene. The status and authorities of the Prince-electors attest to the recognition of their authority. They were provided with the rights to elect the German kings, which usually became Emperors of the Holy Roman Empire. The author notes that shortly after Přemysl Otakar II inherited the power in the Czech Kingdom in 1253, his authority among the powerful rulers of the Holy Roman Empire increased. Some of them were in opposition to the German King William of Holland and decided to nominate the Czech ruler. However, he, focusing on the Pontifical Curia, did not use that opportunity, and after the death of William of Holland no longer anyone proposed to nominate him. That is why Přemysl Otakar II, as the prince-elector, was passive in the election of a new German ruler and through the mediation of ambassadors and authorized persons supported both pretenders – Richard of Cornwall and Alfonso X the Wise. Their election testified that the period without the king – interregnum – continued in the Holy Roman Empire has been to Přemysl Otakar II's benefit.