Uldrikis Kapbergs Livonian poet, patriot of the Livonian coast, self-proclaimed "King of the Livonians" Uldrikis I. His proclamation as king was widely supported by the Livonian population. Date of Birth: 25.03.1869 Country: Latvia

1. Uldriķis I: Self-Proclaimed "King of the Livs"
2. A Call for Autonomy
3. Radical Views and Leadership
4. Arrest and Demise
5. Legacy and Family

Uldriķis I: Self-Proclaimed "King of the Livs"

Uldriķis I, a Livonian poet and patriot, declared himself "King of the Livs" in 1923. His bold proclamation resonated deeply with the Livonian population, earning him widespread support.

Born in the "Buntiki" farmstead in the village of Mikelciems, Uldriķis received a home education. Pursuing a livelihood in fishing, he became a vocal advocate for the Livonian people.

A Call for Autonomy

In 1923, the Livonians of Livonian Coast petitioned the Latvian Cabinet of Ministers for the establishment of a Livonian national district. However, their request was met with denial. This prompted Uldriķis Kapbergs, as he was then known, to take matters into his own hands.

Radical Views and Leadership

Kapbergs's radical views held that the Livonians were an independent nation that should not be subject to any state, including Latvia. He declared the independence of his native coast and refused to recognize Latvian authority or laws. He even forbade his son from serving in the army and refused to pay taxes.

His actions raised eyebrows and led to two stints in a psychiatric hospital. Despite this, his popularity among the Livonians remained unwavering.

Arrest and Demise

On May 2, 1932, Kapbergs was arrested by Latvian police for failing to pay taxes and refusing to conscript his son, Andrejs, into the army in 1931. While incarcerated in Ventspils prison, he died of a heart attack in 1932. He was laid to rest in the Mikel tornis cemetery.

Legacy and Family

Uldriķis I's son, Peeteris Kapbergs, followed in his father's footsteps as a noted Livonian writer. During World War II, he was killed by German occupiers for assisting local partisans.

Uldriķis I's self-proclaimed reign as "King of the Livs" was a testament to his unwavering dedication to the Livonian cause. His legacy as a leader and advocate for his people continues to inspire Livonians today.