The Duchy of Saxe-Gotha was a small German state that existed from 1640 until 1825. It was part of the larger region known as Saxony and was located in what is now Thuringia, Germany. The duchy was established when Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Gotha divided his territory among his sons. Saxe-Gotha was known for its cultural contributions, particularly in the fields of music and literature. The duchy became a center for the Enlightenment in Germany, attracting intellectuals and artists. In 1825, it was merged with the neighboring Duchy of Saxe-Altenburg, marking the end of its independent existence.