ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the regions which the Welfs controlled. It examines developments in northern Germany from the last years of Frederick I until the death of Frederick II, c. 1180 – c. 1252. Saxon politics were marked by a continuous search for independence in the lordships of the nobles and lower aristocracy. Duke Henry the Lion had increased as much as possible the 'feudal' rights that came to him and had just as systematically claimed his rights. In the outlying districts of Welf lordship some dynasties succeeded in increasing or building up what were practically closed areas of lordship. Especially noteworthy are the Schaumburgers, who after 1200 were able to develop their lordship between the Weser, the Steinhuder Sea and Deister into a truly closed lordship, not least through land clearance. The Welfs aimed above all at the consolidation of their lordship and the avoidance of deep enmities with the neighbouring princes.
