Ernest II, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha was a German nobleman born on June 21, 1818. He became the Duke in 1844 after the death of his father, Ernest I. Ernest II was known for his efforts to modernize his duchy and promote economic development, including improvements in infrastructure and education. He played a significant role in the political landscape of Germany during the 19th century, particularly in the context of the German Confederation. Ernest II was also related to several prominent European royal families, including the British royal family, through his marriage to Princess Alexandrine of Baden. He died on August 22, 1893.