The Hohenzollern Dynasty is a prominent royal family that originated in the 11th century in what is now Germany. They initially ruled the region of Swabia and later expanded their influence, becoming the ruling family of the Margraviate of Brandenburg and the Kingdom of Prussia. The dynasty played a significant role in European history, particularly during the rise of the German Empire in the 19th century. The most notable members of the Hohenzollern family include Frederick the Great, who transformed Prussia into a major European power, and Wilhelm II, the last German Emperor. The dynasty's reign ended after World War I, leading to the abdication of Wilhelm II and the establishment of the Weimar Republic.