Ο Frederick II (Friedrich II, 1712-1786), known as Frederick the Great, was King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786. Born on 24 January 1712 in Berlin, he was the son of Frederick William I and Sophia Dorothea of Hanover. Frederick was noted for reforming the Prussian state, strengthening military power and creating a modern administrative apparatus. He was a patron of letters and the arts, and was himself a writer and philosopher with works in French. He also composed music and maintained a correspondence with intellectuals such as Voltaire.

As a military leader, he orchestrated major victories during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ War, expanding Prussia’s territory and making it one of the strongest powers in Europe. He introduced social and economic reforms, such as religious tolerance and improved education.

Frederick II was an active Freemason, having been initiated into the Lodge Loge aux Trois Globes (Lodge of the Three Spheres) in 1738. He held high office and was a staunch supporter of the Masonic Brotherhood and its ideals. His activities in Freemasonry contributed to the spread of the brotherhood in Prussia and Europe.

Frederick II was associated with the Ancient and Accepted Scottish System (AASR) and held high ranks in its structure. He is often credited with contributing to the development and promotion of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Press.

His support for Freemasonry reflected the ideals of the Enlightenment, as the fraternity was in harmony with its values of reason, tolerance and intellectual exchange.

Frederick died on 17 August 1786 at his palace in Potsdam. His reign left a profound imprint on European politics, culture and governance, cementing his position as one of the most influential monarchs of the Enlightenment era. His involvement with Freemasonry marked his commitment to promoting intellectual and cultural development in his kingdom.