Yes, Maximilian II had a significant number of children with his wife, Maria of Austria.
Maximilian II, Holy Roman Emperor, and his first cousin, Maria of Austria, were key figures in the Habsburg dynasty, recognized as the founders of its main Austrian line. Their marriage was particularly fruitful, resulting in a large family that played a crucial role in the succession and continuation of the dynasty.
Maximilian's Offspring
The union between Maximilian and Maria produced sixteen children in total. While not all survived infancy, a substantial number reached adulthood, ensuring the continuity of the imperial line.
Here's a breakdown of their offspring:
| Category | Number of Children |
|---|---|
| Total Children Born | 16 |
| Children Surviving Infancy | 9 |
The survival of nine children to adulthood was a considerable number for the era and crucial for establishing the strong lineage of the Austrian Habsburgs. This large family cemented their position as a prominent European power, influencing political alliances and dynastic successions for centuries. Maria, his wife and first cousin, lived a long life, passing away in 1603.
