The Grand Duchess of Hesse was a title held by the female head of the Grand Duchy of Hesse, a historical region in Germany. The most notable Grand Duchess was Alice, Grand Duchess of Hesse, who was the second daughter of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. She played a significant role in social reforms and was known for her charitable work. The Grand Duchy of Hesse was established in the early 19th century and became part of the German Empire in 1871. The title of Grand Duchess was typically associated with the ruling family and was significant in the context of European royal lineage and diplomacy during that era.