Prince Maximilian of Leuchtenberg was a member of the German nobility, born on March 15, 1817. He was the son of Eugène de Beauharnais, the stepson of Napoleon Bonaparte, and Princess Augusta of Bavaria. Maximilian held the title of Duke of Leuchtenberg and was known for his contributions to the arts and culture in his region. He married Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia in 1839, strengthening ties between the Russian and German royal families. Maximilian's legacy includes his role in promoting education and the arts, as well as his involvement in various charitable activities throughout his life.