Ernest Frederick, Margrave of Baden-Durlach

Ernest Frederick of Baden-Durlach ruled the northern part of the Margraviate of Baden-Durlach. He came to power when he came of age in 1584. He founded the first gymnasium illustre in the margraviate. Ernst Friedrich, who had a strict Lutheran upbringing, started a reconciliation between Lutheranism and Calvinism with the publication of the Staffort Book in 1599. His occupation of Upper Baden caused serious conflicts – even with the Emperor – the consequences of which damaged Lower Baden and ultimately also led to losses of territory.