Leader without Followers? A Network Analysis Study on the Formation of the Mailberger Bund

Abstract

In 1451/52, an opposition of the estates formed in the Duchy of Austria under the leadership of Ulrich von Eitzing against the ruling prince, King Frederick III. The aim of this so-called “Mailberger Bund” was to end Frederick’s guardianship over his cousin Ladislaus Postumus and transfer power to the latter. Although it was Ulrich von Eitzing who motivated a large part of the estates to participate in the Mailberger Bund, he was soon ousted from his leadership position by his allies. Using historical network analysis, this case study examines the extent to which Ulrich von Eitzing’s “social capital” that he brought to the league contributed to this loss of power. The study also contributes to the discussion of network analysis as a method in historical studies.