Louise of The Netherlands - Crown Princess

Crown Princess

Princess Louise married in Stockholm on 19 June 1850 Crown Prince Charles of Sweden and Norway, the son of King Oscar I of Sweden and Norway and Josephine of Leuchtenberg.

The marriage was arranged to provide the new Bernadotte dynasty with heirs and for the enormous dowry expected; although in reality, the dowry was very small. It was an unhappy union, since the Crown Prince found Louise unattractive and was unfaithful, although she quickly fell in love with him. The first decade of their marriage (1852–60) her husband had a relationship with her lady-in-waiting Josephine Sparre: Sparre made a scandal by following Charles around openly at court "like a patch". Among her husband's many mistresses were the actresses Hanna Styrell (1860–69) and Elise Hwasser (1858), the latter being the most celebrated Swedish actress of the era. From 1869, he had a relationship with the independent telegraphist Wilhelmine Schröder, who was interested in spiritism and with whom he discussed existential issues.

During her husband's reign as a prince regent (1857–59), she was described: A more loveable and talented woman would have entirely recreated the atmophere in this circle and also exerted a good influence upon the Prince, who, of a good nature, easily let himself be led by those he likes, especially women. Although good, dutiful and not one to plot, the crown princess lacks higher qualities. She is a good housewife but thinks only of her husband, herself and those closest to her and she has not the good influence on him which her good character gives her the right to have. Because of her inborn shyness, she lacks the courage to meddle in his affairs, and her only wish is to gain his love. With one word; she seems not mature enough for her great task.