Friedrich Wilhelm II, also known as Frederick William II of Prussia, was the King of Prussia from 1786 until his death in 1797. He was born on September 25, 1744, and was the nephew of Frederick the Great. His reign is often characterized by a shift towards a more conservative and less militaristic approach compared to his predecessor. During his rule, Friedrich Wilhelm II focused on domestic policies, including the promotion of arts and culture, and he was known for his patronage of the Prussian Academy of Arts. However, his reign also faced challenges, including financial difficulties and growing tensions with neighboring countries, which ultimately affected Prussia's influence in Europe.