Frederick William III was the King of Prussia from 1797 until his death in 1840. He was born on October 3, 1770, and became king after the death of his father, Frederick William II. His reign was marked by the challenges of the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent efforts to reform Prussia's military and administrative systems. During his rule, Frederick William III faced significant political and social changes, including the rise of nationalism and liberal movements. He is known for his role in the Wars of Liberation against Napoleon Bonaparte and for initiating reforms that modernized the Prussian state, laying the groundwork for future developments in Germany.