German royal families were historically influential dynasties that ruled various regions of Germany before the country became a unified nation in 1871. Notable families included the House of Hohenzollern, which ruled Prussia, and the House of Wittelsbach, which governed Bavaria. These families played significant roles in European politics, culture, and military affairs. After the fall of the German monarchy following World War I, many royal families lost their official power but retained their titles and estates. Today, descendants of these families, such as the House of Hohenzollern and the House of Oldenburg, often engage in cultural and charitable activities, preserving their historical legacies.