The Holy Roman Empress Elisabeth Christine was born on 28 August 1691. In the annals of history, only the fact that she was Maria Theresa’s mother has spared her from complete obscurity.
Born to the Protestant Duke of Braunschweig-Wolfenbüttel, she was chosen to wed Catholic Archduke Charles, future Emperor Charles VI. Surprisingly, it took the combined efforts of a Jesuit priest and a Lutheran pastor to persuade the 15-year-old girl that her conversion would please God. This episode alone underscores that she possessed qualities beyond mere appearance. Furthermore, during her tenure as the young Empress, she effectively governed Spain in the absence of her husband for two years, a feat achieved under extraordinary circumstances. Though the Emperor and his ministers were apprehensive about a woman wielding authority, Elisabeth Christine overcame the odds. While she was often sidelined from political matters due to societal norms, she played a pivotal role in royal matchmaking. Her niece and namesake married Friedrich II of Prussia, while her nephew Anton Ulrich wedded Anna Leopoldovna, the future brief regent of Russia.
Despite facing biases and impediments, Elisabeth Christine maintained amicable relationships with imperial ministers over the years and sustained her interest in politics. According to a Prussian ambassador, she discreetly engaged in political matters without arousing suspicion. Hence, gauging the full extent and impact of her personal involvement remains challenging.
Access to the Metatext via placing an order for an augmented product. See Terms of Use
