Rupert I, Elector Palatine of the Rhine

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Rupert I, "der Rote" Elector Palatine (Wolfratshausen, June 9, 1309 – February 1390 in Neustadt an der Weinstraße) was Elector of the Palatinate from 1356 to 1390.

He was the son of Rudolf I, Duke of Bavaria und Mechthild von Nassau, the daughter of King Adolf of Nassau-Weilburg. After the death of his brother Rudolf II in 1353, he inherited his domains and became sole Elector for the territory, whereas they had previously shared that privilege.

The Golden Bull of 1356 granted the Palatinate the right of participating in the election of the Holy Roman Emperor.

In 1386, Rupert founded the University of Heidelberg, the fourth university in the Holy Roman Empire, which was named after him.

He was succeeded by his nephew, Rupert II, Elector Palatine of the Rhine.

Preceded by Rudolf II

Elector Palatine of the Rhine 1356–1390

Succeeded by Rupert II