They were the prototypes of the successful businessman: the Fuggers. Their immeasurable wealth and global trading company made this family a legend even during their lifetime. Even the richest people of our time could not have rivaled this family. Without them, nothing was going on in economic life. Politically, the family gained more and more influence over the ruling family of the Habsburgs, among other things by giving out generous loans for their war campaigns. Close relationships were also established with the Pope. The establishment of the Swiss Guard as the Pope's protection force was co-financed by the Fuggers.
