Christian X of Denmark vs Francis I

Christian X became King of Denmark on May 14, 1912, following the death of his father, Frederik VIII. His reign spanned both World Wars and the German occupation of Denmark.

Christian X signed a new constitution in 1915 that granted women the right to vote and introduced proportional representation. This was a major step toward full democracy in Denmark.

Christian X dismissed the elected government and appointed a new one, triggering the Easter Crisis. This was a constitutional conflict over the reunification of Schleswig. The king was forced to accept parliamentary supremacy, confirming Denmark as a constitutional monarchy.

During the German occupation of Denmark (1940-1945), Christian X made daily horseback rides through Copenhagen without guards, symbolizing Danish sovereignty and resistance. This act became a powerful symbol of national defiance.

When the German occupiers demanded that Denmark implement anti-Jewish laws, Christian X reportedly threatened to wear a yellow star himself. While the story is partly legendary, the king and the Danish government did protect Danish Jews, leading to their rescue in 1943.

Francis I, then Duke of Lorraine, married Maria Theresa of Austria, uniting the House of Lorraine with the Habsburgs. This marriage founded the Habsburg-Lorraine dynasty and made Francis co-ruler of the Habsburg lands after Maria Theresa's accession.

As part of the agreement for his marriage, Francis I ceded the Duchy of Lorraine to France, receiving the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in compensation. This territorial exchange strengthened French influence in the region and ended Lorraine's independence.

After the death of Charles VII, Francis I was elected Holy Roman Emperor with the support of his wife Maria Theresa. His election restored the imperial title to the Habsburgs, though real power remained with Maria Theresa as ruler of the hereditary lands.