A Comparative Analysis of the Electoral Conditions of Gabriel Báthory, Gabriel Bethlen, and Catherine of Brandenburg

Abstract

Throughout the history of the Principality of Transylvania, as in so many times in human history, the issue of freedom has been relevant, whether it is the ancient or modern aspects of slavery, feudalism-familiarism, or the rule of law in today’s aspect. Thus, the freedom of choice of the Prince of Transylvania (libera electio), which was in a sense limited in the Principality of Transylvania by the conditions for electing of the princes, arises as an important issue.