Jakob Fugger
1459-1525 · German (Augsburg) · Renaissance
Known for: Jakob the Rich — wealthiest person in European history, financed Holy Roman Emperors
Built a trading and banking empire dominating European finance. Financed Charles V's election as Holy Roman Emperor (essentially bought the crown). Monopolized European copper and silver.
Founded the Fuggerei in Augsburg—world's oldest social housing, still operating 500 years later. Rent: one Rhenish guilder/year plus three daily prayers for the Fugger family.
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