Johan Friis facts for kids
Johan Friis (born 1494 – died 1570) was an important Danish statesman. He worked as a top advisor, known as the Chancellor, for King Christian III of Denmark.
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Biography
Johan Friis was born at Lundbygård manor. His parents were Jesper Friis and Anne Johansdatter Brockenhuus. He studied in Odense and Copenhagen. Later, he continued his education in Cologne and Rome.
Early Career and the Reformation
Johan Friis became a very important person in Danish history. He had a big influence on the government under three different kings. He was one of the first powerful nobles to support the Protestant Reformation. This was a big change in religion. King Frederick I of Denmark (1523-1533) promoted this change. Friis became Chancellor in 1532. He kept this important job until he died in 1570.
The Counts' War and King Christian III
During a time when there was no king, Friis helped choose King Christian III of Denmark (1533-1559). This happened during a conflict called the Counts' War. He was captured by Christopher, Count of Oldenburg, who wanted to be king. Friis was forced to support him. But Friis managed to escape to Germany by paying money. From there, he rejoined King Christian III.
Helping Denmark Rebuild
In 1536, Friis helped make peace with the city of Lübeck. After the Reformation, Denmark needed to rebuild. Friis played a big part in this. He helped bring together different groups who were arguing. He was a moderate Lutheran, which meant he was calm and sensible. This helped him deal with the strong feelings of others.
Supporting Education and Learning
Johan Friis was the first leader, called a Rector, of the rebuilt University of Copenhagen. He cared a lot about education and science. He was the first person to give money to the university. He also enjoyed spending time with smart people. Especially those who knew about old buildings and history. He encouraged historian Hans Svaning to continue the history of Denmark written by Saxo Grammaticus. He also asked Anders Vedel to translate Saxo's history into Danish.
Friis was also known for being kind to students who were poor.
Later Years and Properties
Under King Frederick II of Denmark (1559-1588), Johan Friis was very powerful. The king did not understand state matters well. Friis was involved in the Scandinavian Seven Years' War (1563–70). This war made relations between Denmark and Sweden much worse.
In 1553, King Frederick II gave Borreby Castle on Zealand to Johan Friis. After Friis died, the castle went to his nephew, Christian Friis. Johan Friis also owned Hesselagergård, a manor on the island of Funen. From 1538 to 1550, this manor was rebuilt in the beautiful Renaissance style. The Friis family owned Hesselagergård until 1682.
Johan Friis died on December 5, 1570, in Køge. This was just a few days before the peace treaty of Stettin was signed.
