Henry XI of Legnica

Henry XI of Legnica (; Schloss Liegnitz, 23 February 1539 – Krakow, 3 March 1588), was thrice Duke of Legnica: 1551-1556 (under regency), 1559–1576 and 1580-1581. He was the eldest son of Frederick III, Duke of Legnica, by his wife Katharina, daughter of Henry V, Duke of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Life Early years In 1551, Henry XI's father was removed from the government of Legnica by Emperor Charles V. The decision was dictated by the Emperor because Frederick III joined the coalition of Protestant rebel princes, and also supported the long-time enemy of the Habsburgs, King Henry II of France. Henry XI was chosen as the new Duke of Legnica, but because he was only twelve years old, regents were appointed by the Duchy, the Imperial governor, and the Bishop of Wroclaw, Balthasar von Promnitz and George II the Pious, Duke of Brzeg (Frederick III's younger brother), in whose court Henry spent several years studying science. After the abdication of Emperor Charles V in 1556, Frederick III (after promising obedience and loyalty to the new Emperor Ferdinand I) regained the Duchy of Legnica.