Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria was the King of Bavaria from 1806 until his death in 1825. Born on May 28, 1756, he was the son of Duke Maximilian III Joseph of Bavaria. He played a significant role in the transition of Bavaria from a duchy to a kingdom during the Napoleonic Wars, aligning with Napoleon Bonaparte and later joining the German Confederation. Maximilian was known for his efforts in modernizing Bavaria, promoting education, and supporting the arts. He established the University of Munich and encouraged cultural development, which helped shape Bavaria's identity. His reign is often remembered for fostering a sense of Bavarian nationalism.