He was born in the early 15th century as vice-ispán of Bács County,[2] son of the captain of Srebrenik, Ladislaus Szilágyi and Catherine Bellyéni.

In the Czech and Hungarian states they heralded a new judiciary era in Europe, characterized by the absolute supremacy of the Parliament (dietal system) and a tendency to centralization.

During his reign, Matthias reduced the power of the feudal lords, and ruled instead with a cadre of talented and highly educated individuals, chosen for their abilities rather than their social status.

But Matthias, who began by deposing Garai and dismissing Szilágyi, and then proceeded to levy a tax, without the consent of the Diet, in order to hire mercenaries, easily prevailed.

Michael Szilágyi resigned the office of regent in August 1459[8] and was killed by the Ottomans after being captured by Ali Bey Mihaloğlu[9] during the battle near Baziaş in 1460.