The Duke of Brandenburg was a title held by the rulers of the Margraviate of Brandenburg, a historical region in present-day Germany. The title emerged in the 12th century and was associated with the rise of the House of Hohenzollern, which played a significant role in German history. The dukes governed the region and contributed to its political and economic development. In 1618, the title of Duke of Brandenburg became part of the larger title of Elector of Brandenburg, granting the holder a significant role in the Holy Roman Empire. The electors were influential in shaping the political landscape of Germany, and the title eventually evolved into the King of Prussia in the 18th century.