Archduke

By Crusader1307

Another title that developed in the early Middle Ages, an Archduke developed in Germanic Nations (around the later9th Century). It was below an Emperor and King, but above a Duke or Prince. It existed as a Noble title until the 18th Century, and was used heavily within The Holy Roman Empire. Archdukes ruled over territories called an Archduchy. Several Rulers had the title added to their Peerage (such as Frederick III). By the early 19th Century, the title ceased to be conferred (as were the Archduchy as a territorial holding).