Holy Roman Emperor Francis II reigned from 1792 until 1806, marking the end of the Holy Roman Empire. He was born on February 12, 1768, and was the last emperor of the empire, which had existed for over a thousand years. His reign was characterized by the challenges posed by the French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1806, following military defeats and political pressures, Francis II dissolved the Holy Roman Empire and became Francis I, the first emperor of the Austrian Empire. His decision to dissolve the empire was a significant moment in European history, leading to the reorganization of territories and the emergence of new political entities.