Historica Olomucensia

Relations between the ruler and towns in 1526-1547: Chrudim, Vysoké Mýto and Polička as case studies

Royal dowry towns Chrudim, Vysoké Mýto and Polička represented significant political, commercial and communication centres in the region. The largest town, Chrudim, organized regular regional parliaments where political representations met. It appears that the commencement of King Ferdinand I's rule in the Czech lands did not mean any fundamental change, neither brought more noticeable interference into the towns' life or events. The ruler's priority was peace in the towns and correct payment of taxes. Members of knightly families settled in Chrudim and Vysoké Mýto since the end of the 15th c. and their coexistence with the townsmen was without conflicts. Presence of knights might have been one of the factors that influenced behaviour of the other burghers. Tendency of most noblemen who lived in towns to support the opposition against the king had probably impact on the towns' decision to join the anti-Habsburg uprising in 1526-1547. Another reason to take part in the uprising was the attitude of the inhabitants of Prague who represented an estate themselves. After the defeat of the rebellion the towns were punished; however after several years the impact of the penalties was obliterated.