Francis Joseph I was the Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1848 until his death in 1916. He was born on August 18, 1830, and became the ruler during a time of significant political change in Europe. His reign saw the Austro-Hungarian Empire expand and modernize, but it also faced numerous challenges, including nationalistic movements and military conflicts. Under his leadership, the empire underwent various reforms, including the establishment of the dual monarchy in 1867, which created a partnership between Austria and Hungary. Despite his efforts to maintain stability, his reign ended with the onset of World War I, which ultimately led to the dissolution of the empire he had ruled for nearly seven decades.