The Electorate of Saxony was a significant historical territory in the Holy Roman Empire, located in what is now eastern Germany. Established in the early 15th century, it became a key player in European politics, particularly during the Reformation and the Thirty Years' War. The electorate was ruled by the House of Wettin, which played a crucial role in shaping the region's history. In 1806, the Electorate of Saxony was elevated to a kingdom, becoming the Kingdom of Saxony. This transition marked a shift in its political status, allowing it to gain more autonomy and influence in the region. The kingdom lasted until the end of World War I, when it became a free state within the Weimar Republic.