The Nobility of the Holy Roman Empire consisted of various ranks and titles, including princes, counts, and barons. These nobles held significant power and land, often ruling over territories within the empire. Their status was often hereditary, passed down through generations, and they played a crucial role in the political and social structure of the empire. Nobles were also responsible for local governance and military service. They participated in the Imperial Diet, a formal assembly where important decisions were made. The influence of the nobility shaped the culture and economy of the Holy Roman Empire, which existed from 962 to 1806.