Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg, was born on June 2, 1818, and ruled from 1844 until his death in 1893. He was a member of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, a German dynasty known for its influence in European royal families. Ernest played a significant role in the development of his duchy, promoting education and infrastructure. He was also the father of several notable figures, including Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh and Queen Victoria's consort, Prince Albert. Ernest's lineage contributed to the interconnectedness of European monarchies, as many of his descendants married into other royal families across the continent.