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Ferdinand Maria, Elector of Bavaria

Munich, 31 Oct 1636 – Schleißheim palace complex, 26 May 1679

10 facts3 sources

Facts and their sources

  • Born31 Oct 1636, Munichnot verified1 source
  • Titlecommissioneror prince-elector of Bavarianot verified1 source
  • Titleprince-elector of Bavariaor commissionernot verified1 source
  • Died26 May 1679, Schleißheim palace complexnot verified1 source
  • FatherMaximilian I, Elector of Bavarianot verified1 source
  • MotherArchduchess Maria Anna of Austrianot verified1 source

A life in time

  1. 31 Oct 1636

    Born in Munich

  2. 1660–1673

    4 children are born

  3. 26 May 1679

    Dies in Schleißheim palace complex, aged 42

Family

See the tree

Parents

Partner

Children · 4

During his lifetime

He lived through 5 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like around Munich.

General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.

The 1630s · Ferdinand is born in Munich

In the news1618–1648

Destruction of the Thirty Years' War

The Thirty Years' War, lasting from 1618 to 1648, caused a demographic catastrophe where roughly one-third of urban residents and two-fifths of the rural population perished. Soldiers and camp followers frequently destroyed crops and seized food, leading to widespread famine and forcing villagers to abandon their land.

Getting around

Walking and Riding Were Common Travel Methods

Most people traveled on foot, taking an average of 30,000 to 40,000 steps per day, while wealthy individuals typically traveled on horseback.

In the news1631

The Sack of Magdeburg

In May 1631, the strategic city of Magdeburg was plundered and burned by Catholic armies, with most of its 30,000 inhabitants dying or fleeing. This event became a major media moment spread through over 250 newsletters, fueling intense sectarian anger and propaganda.

Daily life

Dark and smoky rural homes

Rural homes, known as Hallenhäuser, lacked chimneys; the open fire caused dark, smoky, and stuffy living conditions. Families often lived under the same roof as their livestock, sharing the space with generations and servants.

What people wore

Men's fashion favored comfort and leather boots

During the Thirty Years' War, men's fashion shifted toward comfort, featuring high-waisted doublets and wide, knee-length breeches that fell in loose folds. Soldiers and educated men alike popularized large leather boots that reached above the knee, which were often worn turned down or slouching.

Music

Versatile Town Instruments

Town musicians often played versatile instruments like the cornett, a wooden instrument with a sweet, singing tone, which was used for indoor and outdoor performances.

At the table

Salted Herring as a Daily Staple

Salted herring was a vital, affordable protein source for ordinary people, with a single fish costing 2 alb. It served as a staple alongside bread and cheese to supplement grain-based diets.