He abdicated on 22 November 1918, amidst the tumults of the German Revolution of 1918–1919 which resulted in the abolition of the grand duchy.

After the death of his cousin Carola of Vasa, he became the representative of the descent of the Kings of Sweden of the House of Holstein-Gottorp.

[3] While in Koblenz, Paul von Hindenburg, among others, served as Chief of the General Staff under Friedrich's command.

[4] After leaving active military service, Frederick was promoted to Generaloberst (Colonel General) with the rank of Generalfeldmarschall (Field Marshal).

Friedrich held the following ranks during his military career: After his death in 1928, the headship of the house was transferred over to his first cousin who was the last Chancellor of Imperial Germany, Prince Maximilian of Baden.