| Joachim Benz | |
|---|---|
| |
| Duke of Hesse-Giessen | |
| Reign | 1601- |
| Coronation | Not crowned |
| Predecessor | Joktan |
| Prince of Darmstadt | |
| Reign | 1590- |
| Coronation | 8 April 1590 in Darmstadt |
| Predecessor | Position Created |
| Born | 1 August 1569 |
| Religion | Roman Catholicism |
Joachim Benz (1 August 1569 - ) was a German military leader and statesman who fought on the Catholic side during the Forty Years' War (1596-1536). His successful martial career made him one of the richest and most influential men in the Holy Roman Empire, earning him many enemies. Born in the city of Darmstadt, Benz became one of the highest ranking secular officials in the Archbishop of Mainz, and became a governor of his native city at a young age. During the Imperial Elections of 1595-96 he was placed in command of a Catholic army positioned outside the city Frankfurt, which became a major catalyst toward the beginning of a conflict in the city. After winning a series of major victories against Joktan of Hesse in the early days of the war, he became a trusted general of Frederick V and eventually the head of the Catholic League army after the death of Leopold III of Habsburg in 1601.
For his role in ending the war with Joktan he was awarded the Duchy of Hesse-Griessen, although the territory was greatly reduced after being split along with Naomi of Friedburg, consort of newly appointed Elector Charles von Luxembourg. Regardless Benz would use this territory as a base for future expansion, quickly causing animosity to grow among his peers.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
