Wilhelm II of Germany was the last German Emperor and King of Prussia, ruling from 1888 until his abdication in 1918. Born on January 27, 1859, he was known for his militaristic and nationalistic policies, which contributed to the tensions leading up to World War I. His reign saw significant industrial and military expansion in Germany. Wilhelm II's leadership style was characterized by a desire for personal control and a tendency to make impulsive decisions. After Germany's defeat in World War I, he fled to exile in the Netherlands, where he lived until his death on June 4, 1941. His abdication marked the end of the German monarchy.