Archduke Franz Karl of Austria was born on December 17, 1802, and was a member of the House of Habsburg. He was the son of Archduke Franz Karl and Princess Sophie of Bavaria. Franz Karl is best known for being the father of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who ruled the Austro-Hungarian Empire for nearly 68 years. Franz Karl held various military and administrative positions throughout his life. He was a prominent figure in the Austrian court and played a role in the political landscape of the time. He passed away on May 8, 1878, leaving a significant legacy through his descendants.