The lonely princess
Charlotte’s childhood was lonely and isolated, much like that of her famous niece Victoria. Yet there was a chance of freedom for the secluded princess: marriage. For Charlotte, marriage meant escape from the controlling grip of her father; it would allow her a chance to determine her own social and political life.
A chance for freedom
After much gossip and dubious links to multiple suitors, a match with William of Orange was proposed in 1813. However, after learning that marrying the future King of the Netherlands would mean leaving her beloved country of Britain for long periods, Charlotte refused to agree to the engagement.
Happiness at last
Fortunately, soon afterwards, the young princess was introduced to the eligible and handsome Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg. The couple took to each other very quickly, and were married to much celebration on 2 May 1816. The hope of a secure future for the monarchy appeared certain.