Frederick II, known as Frederick the Great, was the monarch of Prussia from 1740 until his death in 1786. He was born on 24 January 1712 in Berlin to Frederick William I and Sophia Dorothea of Hanover. Frederick became crown prince after his father ascended the throne in 1713. His upbringing was marked by a strict military environment, which contrasted with his interests in music and philosophy. This led to tensions with his father, who favored a more militaristic education.Frederick's early life included a close relationship with his sister Wilhelmine and a notable friendship with Peter Karl Christoph von Keith, which was cut short when Frederick William I sent Keith away due to rumors of their intimacy. Frederick's attempts to marry into the British royal family were thwarted by political maneuvering, leading to his marriage to Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Bevern in 1733, a union he found unfulfilling.Upon his father's death in 1740, Frederick inherited a powerful military state. He quickly asserted his authority by invading Silesia, claiming it from Austria, which marked the beginning of the First Silesian War. Frederick's military strategies, including the use of disciplined infantry and innovative tactics, led to significant victories, notably at the Battle of Mollwitz and later at Chotusitz, solidifying Prussia's control over Silesia through the Treaty of Breslau in 1742.Frederick's reign was characterized by further military engagements, including the Second Silesian War, where he successfully captured Prague. His military prowess was further demonstrated during the Seven Years' War, where he faced a coalition of Austria, France, and Russia. Despite initial setbacks, Frederick achieved notable victories at Rossbach and Leuthen, which helped maintain Prussia's territorial integrity, particularly Silesia, despite the war's toll on his resources and population.Frederick's policies extended beyond military affairs. He embraced enlightened absolutism, modernizing the Prussian bureaucracy, promoting religious tolerance, and encouraging immigration. He reformed the judicial system, allowing greater access for individuals of lower status to positions of authority. Frederick also supported the arts and education, fostering a cultural environment that attracted intellectuals and artists to his court.In 1772, Frederick participated in the First Partition of Poland, acquiring Royal Prussia, which expanded Prussia's territory and economic resources. His administration focused on exploiting these new lands while promoting German settlement and cultural assimilation. Frederick's later years included involvement in the War of the Bavarian Succession, where he successfully countered Austrian ambitions without engaging in full-scale conflict.Frederick's health declined in his later years, and he became increasingly solitary. He died on 17 August 1786 at Sanssouci, leaving behind a legacy as a military leader and reformer. His burial was in accordance with his wishes, alongside his beloved greyhounds. Frederick's reign significantly shaped Prussia's status as a major European power, and his military strategies and administrative reforms influenced future generations.