Conrad III was crowned King of the Romans (Germany) on March 13, 1138, in Aachen, following the death of Emperor Lothair III, marking the start of the Hohenstaufen dynasty. He designated his nephew, Frederick Barbarossa, as his successor instead of his young son.
Conrad III ruled as king for 14 years but was never crowned Emperor by the Pope. He continued to use the title "King of the Romans" until his death in 1152.