bavarikon4UDescription
Duke Wilhelm IV (1493-1550) and Duke Ludwig X (1495-1545) confirm the liberties and charters of the town of Straubing to the mayor, council and municipality, as agreed at the recent Diet. Mention is made of the letter of clemency from Duke Johann IV (1437-1463) and Duke Siegmund (1439-1501) dated 27 January 1461 and the charter of Duke Wolfgang (1451-1514) dated 27 April 1509, both of which are advertised in the wording. All the dukes’ officials are to abide by these freedoms and charters and protect the town’s rights.
Since the Ottonische Handfeste charter of 1311, there has been documentary evidence of rulers confirming freedoms and privileges already granted, especially when taking office. In return, the town recognised the new ruler as its "right natural lord and sovereign". Over the years, more new privileges and freedoms were added, which were then also confirmed by the new ruler. Freedoms and privileges were granted predominantly in return for money and services to the duke. By confirming the freedoms and privileges, the dukes basically secured the goodwill and loyalty of their subjects. For the towns, confirmations and extensions of freedoms and privileges meant development into independent towns with their own municipal jurisdiction.
Seal:
Majesty’s seal of Wilhelm IV (1493-1550) and Ludwig X (1495-1545). The document shows the dukes’ personal signatures: "W. hertzog in Bayrn scripsit etc per manum propriam et H. Lud. Bayren subscribsi."