Ernst August, Duke of Cumberland (1818-1878), was a German nobleman and a member of the House of Hanover. He was born in Göttingen, Germany, and was the son of Ernst August, King of Hanover. The Duke is known for his role in the political landscape of the time, particularly in relation to the unification of Germany. In 1866, after the Austro-Prussian War, he lost his title and lands when Hanover was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia. Despite this loss, Ernst August remained a prominent figure in European aristocracy and continued to be involved in various cultural and political activities throughout his life.