Christoffer Gabel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Christoffer von Gabel
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Portrait of Gabel by Karel van Mander III
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| Born | 6 January 1617 Glückstadt, Duchy of Holstein (now Germany)
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| Died | 13 October 1673 (aged 56) |
Christoffer Gabel (born January 6, 1617 – died October 13, 1673) was an important Danish statesman. A statesman is a skilled leader who works in government. He was also the father of Frederik Gabel, who became the Vice Governor-general of Norway.
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Who Was Christoffer Gabel?
Christoffer Gabel was born in Glückstadt on January 6, 1617. His father, Wulbern Gabel, was a mapmaker and later a record-keeper in Glückstadt. Sadly, his father was killed in 1628 during a battle at the fortress there.
We don't know much about Christoffer's early life. But we do know he went to a university. His name first appears in records in 1639. At that time, he was working as an overseer and accountant for Duke Frederick. Duke Frederick was the Archbishop of Bremen.
Working for the King
When Duke Frederick became King Frederick III of Denmark, Gabel went with him to Copenhagen. He became the king's private secretary and helped manage his business. Gabel had a lot of influence over the king.
During a short time of peace between Denmark and Sweden, Gabel went on several secret missions. He also took part in plans that led to a big change in Denmark in 1660. This change made the king much more powerful.
A Big Change in Denmark
Gabel was not the person who started this big change. But he was very important in helping King Frederick III and other groups work together. This secret plan gave the king complete power in Denmark-Norway.
Because of his actions, the king was very grateful to Gabel for the rest of his life. Gabel became very rich and was given a noble title. In 1664, he was made the governor of Copenhagen.
A Powerful Figure at Court
From 1660 to 1670, Christoffer Gabel was seen as the most important person at the king's court. He was often involved in money matters and important talks with other countries. During these years, he supported a friendly relationship with France.
However, some people at court did not like Gabel. They felt he was lazy and dishonest in his work.
Losing Power
When King Frederick III died in February 1670, Gabel's power ended. The new king, Christian V, did not like him. Many people started making complaints against Gabel.
On April 18, 1670, Gabel was fired from his main jobs. People did not feel sorry for him. He had become very wealthy while many others were poor. He lost all his titles and special rights. The only thing he kept was control over the money of the Faroe Islands.
Christoffer Gabel spent his last years in Copenhagen. He died on October 13, 1673, and was buried in St. Peter's Church.
