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Claus von AmsbergPrince of the Netherlands, German aristocrat, husband of Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands
Date of Birth: 06.09.1926
Country:  Netherlands |
Content:
- Biography of Claus von Amsberg
- Meeting Princess Beatrix and Controversial Marriage
- Public Service and Popular Figure
- Prince Consort and Family Life
- Final Months and Death
Biography of Claus von Amsberg
Claus-Georg Wilhelm Otto Friedrich Gerd von Amsberg was born in 1926 in the family estate of Haus Dötzingen near Hitzacker, Germany. He grew up in Lower Saxony along with his six sisters. During World War II, Claus joined the Hitler Youth and later served in the Wehrmacht, where he was captured and sent to Italy. After his repatriation, Claus completed his education in Lüneburg and studied law in Hamburg.
Meeting Princess Beatrix and Controversial Marriage
In 1964, Claus von Amsberg met the heir to the Dutch throne, Princess Beatrix, at an official reception. Two years later, they married, despite significant protests from many Dutch citizens due to Claus' German roots and his previous affiliation with the Nazi Party. Claus received the title of Prince of the Netherlands on their wedding day.
Public Service and Popular Figure
Throughout his life, Prince Claus was highly involved in public and political life. He worked in the diplomatic corps in Santo Domingo and Ivory Coast before arriving in Bonn in the 1960s. Despite initial resistance from the Dutch people, Claus gained popularity for his modesty, sincerity, and accessibility to all social classes. He traveled extensively throughout the country, meeting with citizens and engaging in public missions.
Prince Consort and Family Life
When Princess Beatrix ascended to the throne in 1980, Claus became Prince Consort. The couple had three sons: Willem-Alexander, Johan Friso, and Constantijn. The birth of Willem-Alexander, the long-awaited male heir to the Dutch throne, improved Claus' reputation. However, living in the constant shadow of his active spouse took a toll on his psychological well-being. He twice sought treatment for severe depression and battled Parkinson's disease.
Final Months and Death
In his last months, Prince Claus spent time in the intensive care unit of one of the country's top clinics. Queen Beatrix remained by his side, despite her own health challenges. Despite efforts to improve his condition, Prince Claus's health continued to deteriorate. He passed away on October 6, 2002, in Amsterdam at the age of 76.
Thousands of Dutch citizens expressed their respect, gratitude, and appreciation for Prince Claus by lighting candles on the streets. Church bells remained silent until his funeral, which took place on October 15.
