Revolution from above – Bavaria

When you talk about the Bavarian kings, the names Ludwig I and Ludwig II usually come up, but rarely that of the first king, Max I Joseph. Although Bavaria has rarely experienced a similar upheaval as during his time in office at the beginning of the 19th century, the contours of this ruler fade into the mists of history. There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, there is still no academic biography about Max I. Joseph. On the other hand, he is usually in the shadow of his minister Maximilian von Montgelas, who many consider to be the most capable statesman Bavaria has ever produced. In addition, his work was presented in a scientifically magnificent way in the Montgelas biography by the historian Eberhard Weis. No wonder the king only plays a supporting role.

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