Albert I (c. 1100 – 20 November 1170), commonly known as Albert the Bear (German: Albrecht der Bär), was a German nobleman who became the first Margrave of Brandenburg. He was a member of the House of Ascania, the son of Otto I, Count of Ballenstedt, and Eilika of Saxony. Through inheritance and marriage, Albert accumulated several titles, including Count of Anhalt, Count of Börde, and later Margrave of Brandenburg.
In 1157, following the defeat of the Slavic Hevelli and the death of the last Slavic ruler of the region, Albert was granted the Margraviate of Brandenburg by Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa. He proceeded to expand his territories through military campaigns against the Slavic Wends, establishing German settlement and fortifications in the region, most notably founding the cities of Berlin and Cölln.
Albert also held the title of Count of Stade (from 1135) and was involved in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire, supporting Emperor Frederick I in various conflicts, including the campaigns in Italy. He married twice—first to Hedwig of Rath, with whom he had several children, and later to Sophie of Gorizia—strengthening his dynastic alliances.
Albert died on 20 November 1170 in Anhalt and was succeeded by his son, Otto I, who continued the development of Brandenburg. Albert the Bear is remembered for founding the Margraviate of Brandenburg, which later evolved into the core of the Kingdom of Prussia and, ultimately, modern Germany.
