Hubbry Logo
Discover Hubs
Create HubSign in
search buttonadd
Sign in
Prince Rupert of the Rhine
Prince Rupert of the Rhine
Comunity Hub
IntroIntro
WikipediaWikipedia
MediaMedia
arrow-down
TimelinesTimelines
arrow-down
ChronicleChronicle
arrow-down
ArticlesArticles
TalksTalks
addSign in
add
Sign in

Themed Timelines

Main milestonesMain milestonesEarly Life and Family (1619-1638)Early Life and Family (1619-1638)Personal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and RelationshipsLater Life and Death (1682)Later Life and Death (1682)Colonial Ventures and the Hudson's Bay CompanyColonial Ventures and the Hudson's Bay CompanyRestoration and Later Military and Naval Career (1660-1682)Restoration and Later Military and Naval Career (1660-1682)Military Career in the English Civil War (1642-1646)Military Career in the English Civil War (1642-1646)Exile and Naval Ventures (1646-1660)Exile and Naval Ventures (1646-1660)Artistic Interests and PatronageArtistic Interests and PatronageTitles, Positions, and HonorsTitles, Positions, and HonorsScientific Pursuits and InventionsScientific Pursuits and Inventions
Show all
icon
Talks
General forumGeneral forum
General chatGeneral chat

Media Collections

Prince Rupert of the Rhine - German prince, royalist general and admiral (1619-1682)

Main images

03.04.25
Show all
icon
Prince Rupert of the Rhine, a nephew of King Charles I of England, was a flamboyant and controversial figure of the 17th century. A soldier, admiral, scientist, inventor, sportsman, and artist, he lived a life packed with adventure and intellectual pursuits. From his early military experience in Europe to his pivotal role in the English Civil War and his later contributions to science and exploration, Rupert left an indelible mark on history.
Main Milestones
Birth in Prague
December 17, 1619
Rupert was born in Prague, Bohemia (now the Czech Republic), during a tumultuous period of European history. His parents were Frederick V, Elector Palatine, and Elizabeth Stuart, daughter of King James VI and I of Scotland and England. His birth occurred shortly before his father was crowned King of Bohemia, a move that ignited the Thirty Years' War.
Death of his Father & Early Military Experiences
1632
The death of his father, Frederick V, in exile, shaped young Rupert's life, fueling a desire to restore his family's Palatinate lands. He received a military education, gaining early combat experience in the latter stages of the Thirty Years' War alongside his brother, Prince Charles Louis. His bravery and tactical skills became evident, earning him a reputation as a formidable military leader at a young age.
Imprisonment and Release
1638
While attempting to assist his brother in regaining territory in Westphalia, Rupert was captured and imprisoned by Imperial forces. He spent several years as a prisoner, during which time he displayed remarkable resilience and unwavering commitment to his cause. His eventual release came after considerable negotiation and political maneuvering.
Joining the Royalist Cause in the English Civil War
1642
With the outbreak of the English Civil War, Rupert joined his uncle, King Charles I, and became a key commander in the Royalist army. His dashing appearance, aggressive tactics, and charismatic leadership quickly made him a popular figure among the Royalist troops. He led cavalry charges and won significant battles, becoming a symbol of the Royalist cause.
Battle of Marston Moor
1644
The Battle of Marston Moor was a turning point in the English Civil War and a significant blow to Rupert's reputation. Despite his initial successes, the Royalist army suffered a crushing defeat against the Parliamentarian forces. This loss, partly attributed to tactical errors and disagreements among Royalist commanders, significantly weakened the Royalist cause and tarnished Rupert's image.
Exile After the Royalist Defeat
1646
Following the defeat of the Royalist forces and the execution of King Charles I, Rupert went into exile. He engaged in privateering in the Caribbean and elsewhere, seeking to support the Royalist cause and disrupt enemy shipping. This period was filled with adventure, hardship, and strategic maneuvering.
Restoration and Return to England
1660
With the restoration of the monarchy under King Charles II, Rupert returned to England and was welcomed back into the royal court. He became a Privy Councillor and held various military and naval commands. He played a role in the Anglo-Dutch Wars, demonstrating his continued naval prowess.
Scientific Pursuits and Inventions
1670s
In his later years, Rupert dedicated himself to scientific pursuits and inventions. He became a member of the Royal Society and conducted experiments in chemistry, mechanics, and other fields. He is credited with inventing Prince Rupert's Drops, demonstrating interesting properties of tempered glass, and developing new methods for gunpowder production.
Death in London
November 29, 1682
Prince Rupert died in London after a period of illness. He was buried in Westminster Abbey, a testament to his position and legacy. His death marked the end of a remarkable life filled with military exploits, political intrigue, scientific exploration, and artistic endeavors. He remains a fascinating figure in English and European history.

Other Themed Timelines

Artistic Interests and PatronageArtistic Interests and PatronageColonial Ventures and the Hudson's Bay CompanyColonial Ventures and the Hudson's Bay CompanyEarly Life and Family (1619-1638)Early Life and Family (1619-1638)Exile and Naval Ventures (1646-1660)Exile and Naval Ventures (1646-1660)Later Life and Death (1682)Later Life and Death (1682)Military Career in the English Civil War (1642-1646)Military Career in the English Civil War (1642-1646)Personal Life and RelationshipsPersonal Life and RelationshipsRestoration and Later Military and Naval Career (1660-1682)Restoration and Later Military and Naval Career (1660-1682)Scientific Pursuits and InventionsScientific Pursuits and InventionsTitles, Positions, and HonorsTitles, Positions, and Honors
Show all
icon