Ernst I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha was born on June 2, 1818, and became the first Duke of the newly established duchy in 1826. He was a member of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, a prominent German royal family. Ernst I played a significant role in the development of his duchy, promoting education and infrastructure. He ruled until his death on August 22, 1893. During his reign, he focused on modernizing the region and fostering cultural initiatives. His legacy includes the establishment of various institutions that contributed to the social and economic growth of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.