Frederick, the Crown Prince of Prussia, was born on March 18, 1736. He was the son of Frederick William I of Prussia and Sophia Dorothea of Hanover. Frederick is known for his military leadership and efforts to modernize the Prussian army, contributing to the rise of Prussia as a significant European power. Frederick became King Frederick II of Prussia in 1740, following his father's death. He is often referred to as Frederick the Great and is recognized for his role in the Seven Years' War and his patronage of the arts and philosophy, fostering a culture of enlightenment in Prussia.