The Duchess of Hesse refers to the title held by various women in the House of Hesse, a German noble family. The most notable was Princess Alice of the United Kingdom, who became the Grand Duchess of Hesse through her marriage to Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse in 1862. She was known for her charitable work and dedication to social causes. The title has been held by several other duchesses throughout history, each contributing to the cultural and political landscape of their time. The House of Hesse played a significant role in European history, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing various royal families through marriages and alliances.