Charlotte, Grand Duchess of Luxembourg
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Grand Duchess Charlotte of Luxembourg, Charlotte Aldegonde Élise Marie Wilhelmine (January 23, 1896 - July 9, 1985) was the second daughter of Grand Duke William IV of Luxembourg. When her older sister Grand Duchess Marie-Adélaïde, who had succeeded the father, was forced to abdicate on January 14, 1919, Charlotte became the one who had to deal with the revolutionary tendencies in the country. Contrary to her sister, she chose not to meddle with its politics.
In a referendum about the new constitution on September 28, 1919, 77.8% of the Luxembourgish people voted for the continuation of a Grand Ducal monarchy with Charlotte as head of state. In this constitution, the power of the monarch was severely restricted.
During the German occupation in World War II, Charlotte, exiled in London, became an important symbol of national unity.
On November 6, 1919, she married Prince Felix of Bourbon-Parma, and they had six children:
- Grand Duke Jean.
- Princess Elizabeth (born 1922), who married HSH Duke Franz von Hohenberg (1927 - 1977). Has issue.
- Princess Marie-Adélaide (born 1924), who married Karl, Count Henckel von Donnersmarck (born 1928).
- Princess Marie Gabriele (born 1925), who married Knud, Count of Holstein-Ledreborg (1919 - 2001). Has issue.
- Prince Charles (1927 - 1977), who married commoner Joan Dillon. Had issue.
- Princess Alix (born 1929), who married Anton, Prince of Ligne.
On November 12, 1964, she abdicated in favour of the eldest, Prince Jean, who had then been regent for three years.
Charlotte died on July 9, 1985, from cancer.