Duke Henry the Lion was a powerful medieval ruler who lived from 1129 to 1195. He was the Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, known for his military strength and political influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Henry was a member of the Welf dynasty and played a significant role in the expansion of his territories. Henry the Lion was also a patron of the arts and culture, founding several cities, including Lübeck and Hamburg. His reign was marked by conflicts with the Hohenstaufen dynasty, particularly with Emperor Frederick Barbarossa. Ultimately, he was exiled, but his legacy continued through his descendants and the cities he established.