Frederick William II of Prussia was born on 25 September 1744 in Berlin, the eldest son of Prince Augustus William of Prussia and Duchess Luise of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel. He became King of Prussia in 1786 and ruled until his death in 1797. His early life was marked by the ongoing conflicts of the Silesian Wars and the Seven Years' War, which shaped his upbringing and relationship with his uncle, King Frederick II. Frederick II removed him from his family at a young age, placing him under the strict tutelage of Nicolas de Béguelin, who emphasized a rigorous education in line with Enlightenment ideals. Despite this, Frederick William struggled to meet his uncle's expectations, leading to a strained relationship.Frederick William was officially recognized as the heir presumptive in 1758 after the death of his father. His military involvement during the Seven Years' War included participation in significant battles, but his relationship with Frederick II continued to deteriorate, particularly due to Frederick II's attempts to undermine his authority. Frederick William's character diverged from that of his uncle, as he developed a more emotional and bourgeois lifestyle, contrasting with Frederick II's autocratic and militaristic approach.Upon ascending to the throne, Frederick William II implemented reforms aimed at alleviating the burdens on his subjects, reversing many of Frederick II's policies. He promoted the German language and culture, encouraged trade, and completed the codification of laws initiated by his predecessor. His foreign policy was complicated by the existing alliances and the political landscape of Europe, particularly in light of the French Revolution.Frederick William's personal life included two marriages, first to Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick, which ended in divorce, and then to Frederica Louisa of Hesse-Darmstadt. He had several mistresses, including Wilhelmine Enke, who became a close confidant. His reign was characterized by a strong patronage of the arts, shifting the cultural focus from French to German influences, and he supported the construction of significant architectural works, including the Brandenburg Gate and the Marble Palace.Frederick William II's interest in mysticism and occultism was notable, as he joined the Rosicrucians in 1781, reflecting the broader societal trends of the time. His health declined in the late 1790s, and he withdrew from public life, ultimately passing away on 16 November 1797. His burial was marked by a simple procession, and he was interred in the old Berlin Cathedral. His legacy included significant cultural and legal advancements, as well as a reputation for benevolence among his subjects.