The rebel Stefan Fadinger

Charismatic leader

When the Upper Austrian peasants’ revolt breaks out in May of 1626 the motley crew enjoys several military successes. It conquers Steyr, Freistadt and Wels. If nothing else this is thanks to its competent leader, Stefan Fadinger. Along with Christoph Zeller he is responsible for the military tactics and has planned the revolt well in advance.

Fadinger comes from St. Agatha in Upper Austria and is a milliner by trade. He proves to be a charismatic and gifted strategist, but also leads his army with a firm hand. His bodyguards surround him constantly. The military successes of the first few weeks make Fadinger confident of a victory over the Bavarian-Hapsburg army. And furthermore he ends up believing himself to be invincible.

But what will be, will be. During the siege of Linz on June 28th, 1626, as Fadinger is patrolling the city wall in search of an attack point, he is shot at. His horse dies immediately and Fadinger, severely wounded, flees on foot to his headquarters in Ebelsberg. He dies as a result of his injuries on July 5th, 1626. After his death the peasants are unable to chalk up any more significant military wins.