Maximilian I was born on 22 March 1459 in Wiener Neustadt as the only surviving son of Frederick III, Holy Roman Emperor, and Eleanor of Portugal. He became King of the Romans in 1486 and was proclaimed Holy Roman Emperor in 1508, although he was never crowned by the Pope due to political obstacles. His reign marked a significant period of expansion for the House of Habsburg, particularly through his marriage to Mary, Duchess of Burgundy, in 1477, which brought substantial territories into Habsburg control. However, he also faced losses, notably in Switzerland to the Swiss Confederacy.Maximilian's political strategy included securing alliances through marriage, such as the union of his son Philip the Handsome with Joanna of Castile, which established Habsburg influence in Spain. His military campaigns were characterized by both successes and failures, including the notable victory at the Battle of Guinegate in 1479 against the French, although he struggled with financial constraints that limited his military effectiveness.As co-ruler in the Low Countries, Maximilian faced significant challenges, including rebellions and the need to centralize authority, which often led to conflict with local traditions and governance structures. His attempts to consolidate power were met with mixed results, and he ultimately had to cede some territories to France in the Treaty of Arras in 1482.Maximilian's reign also included efforts to reform the Holy Roman Empire's governance. He initiated the establishment of the Reichskammergericht and the Reichshofrat, aimed at improving legal and administrative efficiency. His financial policies often relied on loans from powerful banking families, leading to significant debt.In foreign policy, Maximilian engaged in the Italian Wars and faced the challenge of the Swiss Confederacy, ultimately recognizing their independence in 1499. His later years were marked by a focus on securing the succession for his grandson Charles, which culminated in Charles's election as King of the Romans after Maximilian's death on 12 January 1519.Maximilian's legacy includes his contributions to the Habsburg dynasty's power and influence in Europe, as well as his complex relationship with the governance of the Holy Roman Empire, which laid the groundwork for future developments in imperial politics.