Alexandra of Denmark

NAME: Alexandra Caroline Marie Charlotte Louise Julia (Princess Alexandra of Denmark, later Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom

WHAT FAMOUS FOR: Alexandra of Denmark is renowned for her role as the Queen consort of the United Kingdom and as the wife of King Edward VII. She also played a significant role in philanthropy and cultural activities.

BIRTH: Born on December 1, 1844, in Copenhagen, Denmark, she was christened Alexandra Caroline Marie Charlotte Louise Julia.

FAMILY BACKGROUND: Alexandra hailed from the Danish royal family. Her father, Christian IX, became known as the "Father-in-law of Europe" due to the widespread marriages of his children into various European royal houses.

CHILDHOOD: Growing up in the royal palace of Yellow Palace in Copenhagen, Alexandra enjoyed a privileged childhood. She had a close-knit relationship with her siblings and experienced the responsibilities that came with being a member of the royal family.

EDUCATION: Her education, typical for royalty of the time, focused on languages, arts, and etiquette. Alexandra was fluent in several languages, including Danish, German, and English.

CAREER RECORD: Alexandra of Denmark was crowned Queen of the United Kingdom alongside her husband, Edward VII, on August 9, 1902. This coronation was a grand affair, marked by pomp and circumstance, but it was also a story of unexpected challenges. 

Originally planned for June of the same year, the coronation had to be abruptly postponed when King Edward VII developed a serious illness that required immediate surgery. This unexpected turn of events caused a significant disruption to the elaborate preparations.   

Despite the delay, the coronation was eventually held with great splendor. Alexandra was crowned by the Archbishop of York, while her husband was crowned by the Archbishop of Canterbury. One of the most memorable moments of the ceremony was when all the peeresses raised their coronets as Alexandra was crowned, creating a stunning visual spectacle

Alexandra's primary role was that of a queen consort. Her tenure involved ceremonial duties, philanthropy, and representing the monarchy at public events. She promoted British culture and industry through exhibitions and events.

She was also actively involved in various charitable organizations, particularly those related to women's health and education.

APPEARANCE: Queen Alexandra was noted for her regal beauty, with a graceful stature, high cheekbones, and a serene expression. Tall and slender, with fair hair and blue eyes, her elegant and poised demeanor contributed to her popularity.

Portrait by Franz Xaver Winterhalter, 1864

FASHION: A trendsetter in her time, Alexandra was known for her fashion sense. She often set styles followed by high society, including the Alexandra Rose, a fashionable choker necklace.

Se favored simple yet elegant designs and high-quality materials and promoted British fashion designers.

Alexandra's coronation dress was a masterpiece, embroidered by the women of India, a country she held in high regard. The crown she wore was newly created and featured the renowned Koh-i-Noor diamond

CHARACTER: Described as kind, gentle, and charitable, Alexandra endeared herself to the public. Her compassion and involvement in charitable causes, especially healthcare, left a lasting legacy.

SENSE OF HUMOUR: While the Victorian era did not encourage overt displays of humor, Alexandra was known for her warmth and approachability. She engaged in social activities and was well-liked among her contemporaries.

RELATIONSHIPS: Alexandra married Albert Edward, Prince of Wales, at St Georges Chapel, Windsor on March 10, 1863.

Alexandra's marriage to Edward VII was considered a love match, and the couple had six children.

Their relationship faced challenges due to Edward's philandering., but Alexandra remained devoted to him throughout his life. 

Princess Alexandra of Denmark and the Prince of Wales, 1863

MONEY AND FAME: As the Queen consort, Alexandra lived a life of luxury. Her fame extended beyond the UK, making her a prominent figure in European royalty.

FOOD AND DRINK: Alexandra was known for her refined taste in food and enjoyed the lavish banquets and formal dinners that were customary in royal circles.

MUSIC AND ARTS: A patron of the arts, Alexandra supported musicians, artists, and cultural events. Her influence contributed to the flourishing of the arts during the Edwardian era.

She played the piano and enjoyed attending concerts and operas.

LITERATURE: While there is no extensive record of her literary pursuits, Alexandra supported literary events and the cultural enrichment of society.

NATURE: She had an appreciation for nature and was involved in horticulture. The Alexandra Rose, named after her, became a symbol of beauty and grace.

PETS Alexandra owned a pet goat with an interesting origin. Originally intended for dinner during a cruise, the goat managed to slip its tether and, in a surprising turn of events, approached Alexandra, resting its head on her lap. Moved by this unexpected connection, Alexandra decided to adopt the goat as her pet.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS: Alexandra enjoyed horse riding and was actively involved in equestrian activities. She also had an interest in photography and enjoyed ice skating and dancing.

SCIENCE AND MATHS: While not extensively involved in scientific or mathematical pursuits, Alexandra supported advancements in healthcare, showing a practical understanding of science.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY: Her upbringing in the Lutheran faith influenced her values. As a queen consort, she adopted the Church of England and respected the religious diversity within the British monarchy.

SCANDAL: Alexandra faced public scrutiny during the Tranby Croft affair, where accusations of cheating during a card game led to legal proceedings. However, she was eventually vindicated.

MILITARY RECORD: As a queen consort, Alexandra was not directly involved in military matters. However, she took an active interest in the well-being of soldiers and supported military charities.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS: Alexandra endured an episode of rheumatic fever during the delivery of Louise, Princess Royal, on February 10, 1867. The combination of illness and labor posed a severe threat to Alexandra's life. Although she eventually recovered, the rheumatic fever left her with a lasting and distinct limp. Remarkably, her unique gait became a trend among young women who looked up to her as a style and fashion icon. These admirers even went as far as mimicking the limp, coining it the "Alexandra Limp."

HOMES: Alexandra grew up in the Yellow Palace, adjacent to the Amalienborg Palace complex in Copenhagen. 

After marrying, Alexandra resided in various royal residences, including Buckingham House and Sandringham House. On Edward's death, Alexandra moved out of Buckingham Palace to Marlborough House

TRAVEL: Alexandra of Denmark undertook several significant journeys throughout her life:

In 1863, she traveled from Denmark to England to marry the Prince of Wales, who later became King Edward VII.

Throughout her life as Queen consort, she accompanied her husband on various diplomatic visits across Europe.

Following Edward's death in 1910, Alexandra continued to travel, visiting family in Denmark and attending events across Europe.

DEATH: Queen Alexandra passed away on November 20, 1925, at Sandringham House, Norfolk, England after suffering a heart attack. She was buried in an elaborate tomb next to her husband in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA: Alexandra's life and image have been featured in various media formats:

Historical documentaries about the British Royal Family often include her story.

Biographies and fictionalized accounts depict her life as a queen consort and her influence within the British court.

Paintings and photographs document her public appearances and regal persona. 

ACHIEVEMENTS: Queen Alexandra's legacy lies in her contributions to philanthropy, her influence on fashion and culture, and her role as a beloved queen consort during a transformative period in British history.

She was Princess of Wales from 1863 to 1901, the longest anyone has ever held that title.

Source Encyclopedia of Trivia