King Friedrich Wilhelm III of Prussia reigned from 1797 to 1840. He was born on October 3, 1770, and became king after the death of his father, Friedrich Wilhelm II. His reign was marked by the challenges of the Napoleonic Wars, during which Prussia faced significant military defeats and territorial losses. Friedrich Wilhelm III is known for his efforts to reform the Prussian state and military after the wars. He initiated various social and economic reforms, including the abolition of serfdom. His leadership helped lay the groundwork for the eventual unification of Germany under Otto von Bismarck in the late 19th century.