The Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen was a historical state in Germany, part of the larger region known as Saxony. Established in the early 19th century, it became a duchy in 1826 when it was separated from the Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen and ruled by the House of Saxe-Meiningen. The duchy was known for its cultural contributions, particularly in theater and music. The capital of the duchy was Meiningen, which became a center for the arts under the patronage of its rulers. The duchy existed until the end of World War I in 1918, when the German monarchy was abolished, leading to the establishment of the Free State of Saxe-Meiningen.