The Duke of Baden was a title held by the rulers of the historical region of Baden, located in southwestern Germany. The title emerged in the late Middle Ages and was officially recognized in the 19th century when Baden became a Grand Duchy. The Dukes played a significant role in the political and cultural development of the region. The last Duke of Baden was Friedrich II, who ruled until the end of the monarchy in Germany after World War I. Following the abolition of the monarchy in 1918, the title became largely ceremonial, and the descendants of the ducal family continue to hold the title today.