Rupert I, Elector Palatine

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Rupert I, "the Red" (German: der Rote), Elector Palatine (Wolfratshausen, June 9, 1309 – February 1390 in Neustadt an der Weinstraße) was Count Palatine of the Rhine from 1353 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 guaranteed the Palatinate the right of participating in the election of the Holy Roman Emperor. Previous Counts Palatine had participated in other Imperial elections.

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.

Preceded by Rudolf II

Elector Palatine 1353–1390

Succeeded by Rupert II