Duke Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria was born on May 28, 1756, and became the Duke of Bavaria in 1799. He is known for his efforts to modernize the state and promote education, culture, and the arts. His reign saw the establishment of various institutions, including the Bavarian Academy of Sciences. Maximilian I Joseph played a significant role in the political landscape of Germany during his time. He was a key figure in the formation of the Bavarian Constitution in 1808 and supported the unification of Germany. He ruled until his death on October 13, 1825.