George the Bearded was Duke of Saxony from 1500 to 1539 and was known for his strong opposition to the Reformation. While the Ernestine line accepted Lutheranism, the Albertines, led by George, resisted religious change. Although he tried to prevent a Lutheran succession, the Act of Settlement of 1499 ensured that, after his death in 1539, Henry IV—a Lutheran—became duke and introduced Lutheranism as the official state religion of the Albertine territories.
George, Duke of Saxony (born 1471)
George, Duke of Saxony (born 1471)
On April 17, in the year 1539, George, Duke of Saxony (born 1471). This event is recorded as a Notable Deaths event in the history of April 17, one of 401 recorded events on this date across all of history.
1 notable person is associated with this event, including George, Duke of Saxony. Learn more below.
Key Facts
- This event took place on April 17, 1539 (AD era).
- It is categorised as a Notable Deaths event in recorded history.
- Referenced in 1 Wikipedia article.
- 1 notable person is recorded as involved in or associated with this event.
- Wikipedia source last updated on 30 November 2025.
On This Date in History 401
This article draws on content from Wikipedia, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
People Involved
More on April 17
Proclus, Greek mathematician and philosopher (born 412)
Proclus, Greek mathematician and philosopher (born 412)
Comments 0
Sign in to join the discussion.