Early 1800s
The beginning of the 19th century saw the end of a period in Atariian history known as the Middle Monarchies. This came about as greater amounts of trade resulted in a boom of mercantilism. There was, generally, a greater sense of stability in the economy of each kingdom, as well as scientific advancements in many fields of study. This came to head in 1806 when Wilhelm I united the 16 major kingdoms in the area to create a "Confederation of Great Monarchies," as he called it. With this, he was named Grand King Wilhelm I, "der Uniter."
Mid 1800s
The expanse seen under Grand King Wilhelm I was great, however it did not focus on territorial gains. In fact, there were very few uses of the militaries at his disposal, marking him as one of the most peaceful rulers in the history of the Atariian people. He saw to it that there was great economic expanse in the Confederation during his rule, along with forging closer relations between each monarchy. However, he died in 1823 at the age of 41. It was from this point that his son was named Grand King Wilhelm II at the age of 11. He continued, to the best of his ability, his father's rule of maintaining peace within the Confederation and focusing on furthering economic growth. This, however, came to a head when he was killed by his successor.
Late 1800s
Upon his murder, Grand King Wilhelm II was succeeded by, then King, Otto I. Otto was a young member of the nobility in the Confederation, ruling over one of the kingdoms within. However, he felt that this period of peaceful non-expansion needed to end. He, and many like-minded co-conspirators (all members of nobility), plotted against Grand King Wilhelm II to replace him. Once this was achieved, King Otto I named himself "Kaiser des Volkes (Kaiser of the People)" and the Confederation became a "Grand Empire." This was the beginning of the first imperial system ever used in the history of the Atariian people and gained Otto I the title of "der Imperator." With a powerful economy at his disposal, along with the ability to create one of the most powerful militaries of the time due to advancing technology and population growth, his goal of rapid expansion was seen through. In his 68 years of rule, he expanded much further than the stretch of all lands claimed during the reign of the Holy Oligarchy, which was about 700 years longer. With this, he fulfilled his goal of expanding more than any other ruling government or sovereign in the history of the Atariian people.