Gabriel Bethlen was one of the most prominent politicians and generals of the Principality of Transylvania in the 17th century. He reigned between 1613 and 1629. Bethlen was born into a noble family in 1580 in Gyulafehérvár. In 1598, Báthory supported Rudolf and when Báthory returned to Transylvania, he fought on his side. Due to his participation in the struggle, he gained great political influence. In 1613, he managed to ascend the throne of the Principality of Transylvania. He carried out many reforms, including the transformation of the financial system, education, and the improvement of the principality's foreign relations. His foreign policy was also extremely successful. He made an alliance with the Ottoman Empire, which allowed Transylvania to remain independent from Hungary, which was controlled by the Habsburgs. Emelett successfully led the Transylvanian army. He was elected king of Hungary in 1620. He died in 1629. As his successor, he first wanted his younger brother, Stephen Bethlen, and finally his wife, Katalin of Brandenburg, took his place.