The Prussian ruler most notably associated with allowing religious freedom was Frederick the Great (Frederick II). He ruled Prussia from 1740 to 1786 and is recognized for his enlightened absolutism, which included policies of religious tolerance. Although Protestantism remained the favored religion in Prussia, Frederick the Great allowed religious freedom and tolerated Jews and Catholics, encouraging immigrants of diverse religious backgrounds to settle in Prussia. His approach was pragmatic and aimed at the development and prosperity of the state rather than strict religious uniformity. He supported freedom of the press and literature and was known for his connections with Enlightenment thinkers like Voltaire. However, his tolerance was not entirely without prejudice, as he maintained some restrictions on Catholics in higher state positions and expressed concerns about the Jewish population in certain contexts
. Other Prussian rulers, such as Frederick William IV and Frederick William II, had different approaches. Frederick William IV was deeply religious and less tolerant, envisioning a Christian state, while Frederick William II tightened religious control and censorship, moving away from the enlightened policies of Frederick the Great
. In summary, Frederick the Great stands out as the Prussian ruler who allowed religious freedom and promoted a degree of religious tolerance in the 18th century.
