Maximilian II

(born Nov. 28, 1811, Munich—died March 10, 1864, Munich) King of Bavaria (1848–64). Son of King Louis I, he succeeded to the throne on his father's abdication in 1848. He proposed a league of smaller states as a “third force” in German affairs but was opposed by the dominant states of Austria and Prussia. He successfully introduced liberal reforms in Bavaria, including freedom of the press and ministerial responsibility. He made Munich a centre of culture and gave support to such scholars as Leopold von Ranke. He was succeeded by his son Louis II.

Source: Encyclopedia Britannica