Grand Duke Frederick I of Baden was born on September 9, 1826, and ruled as the Grand Duke of the Grand Duchy of Baden from 1856 until his death in 1907. He was a member of the House of Zähringen and played a significant role in the political landscape of Germany during the 19th century, particularly in the context of the unification of Germany. Frederick I was known for his progressive policies, including support for education and infrastructure development. He was also involved in the cultural life of Baden, promoting the arts and sciences, and fostering a sense of national identity within the region, which was part of the larger German Empire after 1871.