Brandenburg originated in northeastern Germany around 1157, when Albert the Bear from the House of Ascania established it as a margraviate within the Holy Roman Empire. Located between the Elbe and Spree rivers, this region was previously inhabited by Slavic tribes. Albert conquered these territories through military campaigns and diplomatic alliances, founding key settlements and establishing German administrative control. The dense forests and river systems provided natural defenses while also offering resources for the growing population. This marked the beginning of German eastward expansion and colonization in this strategic region.
The Ascanian dynasty ruled Brandenburg from 1157 to 1320, transforming it from a frontier territory into a well-organized margraviate. They implemented systematic colonization policies, inviting German settlers to establish new towns and villages throughout the region. This period saw continuous territorial expansion eastward, with new lands acquired through conquest and diplomatic agreements with Slavic rulers. The Ascanians established efficient administrative systems, built fortifications, and developed extensive trade networks connecting Brandenburg to major European commercial centers. German law and customs gradually replaced Slavic traditions, while new agricultural techniques increased productivity and supported population growth.
After the extinction of the Ascanian line in 1320, Brandenburg entered a period of political instability and decline. The Wittelsbach dynasty ruled from 1323 to 1373, but their distant governance from Bavaria led to administrative neglect and internal conflicts. Local nobles gained increasing autonomy, weakening central authority. The situation worsened under Luxembourg control from 1373 to 1415, as these rulers were primarily focused on their Bohemian territories. Brandenburg suffered territorial losses, economic decline, and administrative breakdown. Trade routes were disrupted, towns declined, and the margraviate became increasingly fragmented, setting the stage for the eventual Hohenzollern intervention.
In 1415, Frederick of Hohenzollern acquired Brandenburg from Emperor Sigismund, marking the beginning of a transformative era. Frederick I immediately implemented comprehensive reforms to address the problems inherited from previous rulers. He reorganized the administrative system, appointing capable officials and establishing efficient governance structures. Financial recovery measures included debt restructuring, tax reforms, and promotion of trade and commerce. Territorial consolidation involved reclaiming lost lands, strengthening fortifications, and establishing clear boundaries. These early Hohenzollern reforms laid the foundation for Brandenburg's future expansion and eventual rise as a major European power.
Under early Hohenzollern rule, Brandenburg underwent remarkable transformation and expansion. Strategic territorial acquisitions in the 1440s, 1470s, and 1500s significantly enlarged the margraviate's boundaries. The establishment of standing armies provided military strength and security, while economic policies promoted manufacturing and trade development. New trade routes connected Brandenburg to major European commercial centers, fostering economic growth and prosperity. The Hohenzollerns maintained careful diplomatic relations with the Holy Roman Empire and neighboring states, balancing autonomy with imperial obligations. By 1500, Brandenburg had evolved from a fragmented territory into a consolidated regional power, setting the foundation for its eventual rise as Prussia and later as a major European state.