RUDOLF Habsburg (Rudolf von Habsburg)

(1858-1889)
The only son of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Elisabeth of Bavaria, he was born August 21, 1858 in Laxenburg near Vienna. Rudolph received his education, as prescribed by strict family traditions, and had experienced the severity of army life. However, he showed a lively interest in the natural and economic sciences, had a talent for learning languages, traveled. Heir maintained friendly, although not advertised relationships with journalists and wrote articles in the print edition.
Rudolph, like his mother, had characterized the rebellious spirit. He was irritated by the strict rules of life at court, he was subjected to sharp criticism - both orally and in writing - the aristocratic society. He sympathized with France, advocated a softer policy towards Czechs and Croats. Father often criticized Rudolph and did not allow him to public affairs, which severely hurt the sensitive young man.

In 1881, Rudolf was married to Princess Stephanie of Belgium, but their marriage was unsuccessful. Archduke spent time in secret romances, the last of his hobby became Baroness Maria Evenings. January 30, 1889 they were found dead in a secluded hunting castle Mayerling, 40 km south-west of Vienna. There is reason to believe that Rudolf had shot his mistress and then himself.