George, Duke of Saxony
George the Bearded (Meissen, 27 August 1471 – Dresden, 17 April 1539) was Duke of Saxony from 1500 to 1539 known for his opposition to the Reformation. While the Ernestine line embraced Lutheranism, the Albertines (headed by George) were reluctant to do so. Despite George's efforts to avoid a succession by a Lutheran upon his death in 1539, he could not prevent it from happening. Under the Act of Settlement of 1499, Lutheran Henry IV became the new duke. Upon his accession, Henry introduced Lutheranism as a state religion in the Albertine lands of Saxony.
| George | |
|---|---|
Portrait by Lucas Cranach the Elder, c. 1534 | |
| Duke of Saxony Margrave of Meissen | |
| Reign | 12 September 1500 – 17 April 1539 |
| Predecessor | Albert III & IV |
| Successor | Henry IV |
| Born | 27 August 1471 Meissen |
| Died | 17 April 1539 (aged 67) Dresden |
| Spouse | |
| Issue Detail |
|
| House | Wettin (Albertine line) |
| Father | Albert III, Duke of Saxony |
| Mother | Sidonie of Poděbrady |
| Religion | Roman Catholicism |
Duke George was a member of the Order of the Golden Fleece.
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