Princess Sophia of the Palatinate (1630-1714) was a German noblewoman and a significant figure in European history. She was the daughter of Frederick V, Elector Palatine and Elizabeth Stuart, making her a member of the House of Stuart. Sophia is best known for being the mother of the future British monarchs, as her descendants became the ruling family of Great Britain. In 1701, the Act of Settlement was passed, which established her as the heir to the English throne, bypassing many other claimants. This act was crucial in ensuring a Protestant succession in England. Sophia's lineage ultimately led to the establishment of the House of Hanover in Britain.