Frederick William II of Prussia

Reign: 1786 – 1797
Life: 1744–1797

He was also Prince-elector of Brandenburg and Prince of Neuchâtel. As a defensive reaction to the French Revolution, Frederick William II ended the German Dualism between Prussia and Austria. Domestically, he turned away from the enlightened style of government of his predecessor and introduced a tightened system of censorship and religious control. The king was an important patron of the arts especially in the field of music. As a skilled cellist he enjoyed the dedication of various cello-centric compositions by composers Mozart, Haydn, Boccherini, and Beethoven. He was also responsible for some of the most notable architecture in Prussia, including the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Marble Palace, and Orangery in the New Garden, Potsdam.

During Frederick William II of Prussia's reign, George III of Great Britain ruled Great Britain, Catherine II of Russia ruled Russia, and Selim III ruled Ottoman Empire.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600–1947 by Christopher Clark

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The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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Go deeper on Frederick William II of Prussia

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Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600–1947

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