Hermann IV was a German nobleman who lived during the late 12th century. He was a member of the House of Hohenstaufen, a prominent dynasty that played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. Hermann IV was known for his efforts to maintain the influence of his family in the region. He served as the Duke of Swabia and was involved in various conflicts and alliances that shaped the political landscape of his time. His reign was marked by struggles against rival factions and the ongoing power dynamics within the empire, reflecting the complexities of medieval governance.