Jan Jiskra of Brandýs and the widow estates of Elizabeth of Luxembourg in Upper Hungary (mining towns and their role in financing military activities)

Abstract

The work of Jan Jiskra in Hungary have been studied so far mainly against the background of political and military history. Research has only marginally addressed the economic activities of Jiskra and his party. Jiskra’s contacts with the League of the Seven Mining Towns between 1442 and 1457 form a probe into the broader issue. They bring to light specific forms of economic cooperation – the financing of armies, castles and defence in relation to the changing distribution of power. A central role played Jiskra’s control over the mining and coinage chamber in Kremnica, which also helps to better understand his power.