Grand Duke Ferdinand Maximilian was an Austrian archduke born on July 6, 1832. He was the younger brother of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria. Maximilian is best known for his brief reign as Emperor of Mexico from 1864 to 1867, a position he accepted during a time of political turmoil in the country. His rule was marked by efforts to modernize Mexico and establish a constitutional monarchy. However, he faced significant opposition from republican forces led by Benito Juárez. Ultimately, Maximilian was captured and executed in 1867, leading to the end of foreign intervention in Mexico.