Archduke facts for kids
The title of Archduke (feminine: Archduchess) was a very special royal rank. It was higher than a Duke but lower than a King. This rare title was mainly used by the male members of the Habsburg family, who ruled Austria for many centuries.
Contents
What is an Archduke?
The word "Archduke" comes from the Latin words arch(i)-, meaning "primary" or "chief," and dux, meaning "duke." It started being used in English around the year 1530.
It's important to know that an Archduke (Erzherzog in German) is different from a Grand Duke (Großherzog). The title of Grand Duke is used by other royal families in Germany and is still used in the country of Luxembourg.
Archdukes in Stories and Movies
Sometimes, you might hear the title "Archduke" in fictional stories!
- Poggle the Lesser was the Archduke of Geonosis, a planet in the famous Star Wars universe.
Famous Archdukes and Archduchesses
Many important historical figures held the title of Archduke or Archduchess. Here are a few:
- Empress Maria Theresa: She was a powerful ruler and an Archduchess of Austria.
- Archduchess Maria Antonia of Austria: She was the daughter of Empress Maria Theresa. She is better known as "Marie Antoinette" and became the wife of King Louis XVI of France.
- Maria Teresa of Austria: Also known as "Marie Thérèse," she was an Archduchess who became the wife of Louis XIV of France.
See Also
In Spanish: Archiduque para niños
Images for kids
-
Archducal hat, the special crown of an archduke
-
A bust (sculpture) of Archduke Leopold Wilhelm of Austria
