Ferdinand II of the Holy Roman Empire was born on July 9, 1578, and became the Holy Roman Emperor in 1619. He was a member of the House of Habsburg and played a significant role in the Thirty Years' War, a major conflict in Europe that lasted from 1618 to 1648. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen Catholicism and centralize power within the empire. Ferdinand II was known for his staunch support of the Catholic Church and his opposition to Protestantism. His policies and actions contributed to the escalation of religious tensions in Europe, leading to widespread conflict. He died on February 15, 1637, leaving a complex legacy in European history.