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Karl IIRuler of the state of Mecklenburg-Strelitz from 1794 until his death
Date of Birth: 10.10.1741
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Governor of Hanover
- Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
- Death and Legacy
- Marriages and Children
Early Life and Career
Duke Charles Louis Frederick of Mecklenburg-Strelitz was born on November 10, 1741, in Mirow. He was the second son of Duke Charles of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, Prince of Mirow, and his wife, Princess Elisabeth Albertine of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Upon the death of his uncle, Adolphus Frederick III, in 1752, Charles' older brother became Adolphus Frederick IV, and the family moved from Mirow to the capital, Strelitz.
At the age of four, Charles embarked on his military career by joining the Commission of Captains in Hanover. His sister, Charlotte, married King George III of Great Britain in 1761. Charles frequently visited his sister in England and eventually entered the service of his brother-in-law as head of the Hanoverian military department in Spain. He rose to the rank of General of Infantry (later Field Marshal).
Governor of Hanover
In 1776, Charles was appointed Governor-General of Hanover by his brother-in-law. As governor, Charles held the authority of a sovereign ruler, while George III remained in England, seeing himself as primarily British. After the death of his wife, Charles retired from his military and gubernatorial posts in 1785. He then pursued travels and became president of the Imperial Credit Commission in Darmstadt.
Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
With the passing of his childless brother, Adolphus Frederick IV, on June 2, 1794, Charles inherited the title of reigning Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
During his reign, the Duke reduced the number of administrative districts, encouraged advancements in agriculture, introduced a new police force in 1812, and implemented compulsory education. In 1806, his duchy joined the Rhine Confederation. Following the Congress of Vienna, his title was elevated to Grand Duke on June 28, 1815.
Death and Legacy
In 1816, the Grand Duke traveled to Rheinsberg, Schwalbach, and Hildburghausen. Upon his return, he contracted pneumonia and died in Neustrelitz on October 6, 1816, after suffering a stroke. He was succeeded by his eldest son, George.
Marriages and Children
Charles married twice:Firstly, to Princess Frederica of Hesse-Darmstadt in 1768. They had ten children, including two daughters who married German kings.
Secondly, to Princess Charlotte of Hesse-Darmstadt in 1784. They had one son.
