Palatinate-Birkenfeld-Zweibrücken was a state of the Holy Roman Empire based around the Duchy of Zweibrücken in modern Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.
Christian IV began his reign obtaining politically favourable conditions for his state, and in this end he formed a close relationship with the court of France.
Although he bankrupted the state through his alchemy, art collecting, construction work and a failed attempt to establish a porcelain industry in Zweibrücken, he was considered a good Duke, especially in comparison to his nephew Charles III who succeeded him in 1775.
Charles III began his reign as an absolutist ruler, and in the first two years he endeavoured to dismiss the court and restore the financial situation of the state.
He greatly expanded the size of the household of the Duchy which quickly developed into a financial burden itself, further increasing his unpopularity.