Prince Ernst of Saxe-Altenburg was a member of the German nobility, born on December 21, 1826. He belonged to the House of Saxe-Altenburg, a branch of the larger House of Wettin. Ernst served in various military roles and was known for his dedication to public service. He became the Duke of Saxe-Altenburg in 1853 and ruled until his death on February 9, 1908. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize the duchy and improve the welfare of his subjects. Ernst's legacy continues to be remembered in the context of German history and the broader German nobility.