Corfitz Ulfeldt - arcyzdrajca, królewski zięć

Abstract

Corfits Ulfeldt was one the most prominent persons in the history of the 17th century Denmark. He was a son of Chancellor Jacob Ulfeldt. Receiving comprehensive education abroad, in 1629 Corfits Ulfeldt managed to win the favor of King Christian IV, who allowed him to marry his daughter Eleonore Christine. In 1636, he became Councilor of State and in 1643 - Steward of the Realm. The paper shows his brilliant career and how he eventually became recognized as the most notorious traitor in Danish history. He committed treason in three major ways: collaborating with the arch-enemy Sweden (Queen Christina and Carl X Gustav), conspiring to restore Catholicism in Denmark and, finally, becoming the most corrupted statesman in his homeland, who made a fortune at his king and country's cost. Collaboration with foreign powers was not always perceived as treason at that time, but in case of Ulfeldt, there was a common consent among his fellow countrymen both then and now as to the nature of his deeds.