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In a landmark decision, Fugger provided a monumental loan of 800,000 florins to Maximilian of Austria, helping him ascend as the Holy Roman Emperor. This move marked Fugger's evolution into a kingmaker, as he realized the immense power that financial backing could yield in political spheres.
The Church and the Sale of Indulgences
Ambitious in his pursuit of influence, Fugger aimed to secure power over the church as well. The opportunity arose with the vacancy for the Archbishop of Mainz in 1514, a position that wielded significant political influence. Fugger assisted Albrecht of Hohenzollern with a loan intended for bribes—enabling Albrecht to secure the position, further extending Fugger’s influence within the church.