Marie-Louise of Austria

Early Life

• Birth: Born on December 12, 1791, in Vienna.
• Parents: Francis II (Holy Roman Emperor) and Maria Theresa of Naples, related to Marie-Antoinette.
• Upbringing: Raised by governesses, experienced a bourgeois upbringing.
• Exile Influence: Family exile in 1805 due to Napoleon's campaigns, leading to a dislike of France and Napoleon.

Marriage to Napoleon

• Rumors of Marriage: In 1809, rumors circulated about Napoleon seeking a bride following Austria's defeat.
• Reluctance: Marie-Louise was initially against marrying Napoleon but resigned to her fate to serve state interests.
• Marriage Ceremony: Official proposal made on March 8, 1810; marriage by procuration on March 11, religious ceremony in Paris on April 2.

Role as Empress

• Empress Title: Became Empress of the French upon marriage.
• Birth of Heir: Gave birth to a son, titled King of Rome, on March 20, 1811.
• Duties: Lived a life of ceremony and etiquette, fulfilled representative duties.

Political and Personal Challenges

• Regency: Acted as regent in 1813 during Napoleon's campaigns but with limited power.
• Separation: After Napoleon left for Elba, she returned to Austria, influenced by her father and Comte de Neipperg.

Life in Parma

• Duchess of Parma: Became Duchess as per the Congress of Vienna in 1815.
• Governance: Ruled benevolently with Neipperg's assistance.
• Marriages: Married Neipperg in 1821; after his death, married Comte de Bombelles in 1834.
• Death: Died on December 17, 1847, buried in Vienna.

Legacy

• The duchy of Parma returned to the House of Bourbon-Parma post her death.

References

• Various historical correspondences and writings cited for detailed accounts.