Frivolous Facts About Maria Isabella, The Royal Wrecking Ball
Frivolous but charismatic, Maria Isabella of Spain had an unparalleled zest for life. She lived a pampered life, but danger stalked her every move.
Behind the public image of a picture-perfect life, Maria Isabella's world was wrought with tragedy, family conflicts, and life-threatening debacles—right until the bitter end.
1. She Faced Scandalous Rumors
Born on July 6, 1789 to King Carlos IV of Spain and Maria Luisa of Parma, Maria Isabella of Spain faced scandal right from the get-go. Around that time, her mother's favorite official, Manual Godoy, rose to power. The timing of her birth and Godoy’s close bond with the queen led to accusations and rumors that Godoy, not the king, was her real father.
The gossip had already begun to swirl with Maria Isabella's birth, but the rumblings in the Spanish court were about to get even louder.
2. She Had A Chaotic Childhood
Chaos revolved around Maria Isabella's childhood as undeniable turmoil whipped its way through Europe. The French Revolution led to the demise of the French Bourbon dynasty.
In Spain, economic problems, the unpopularity of the Prime Minister, and the King’s poor governance resulted in public discontent with the royal family.
But as the outside world raged around her, Maria Isabella had her own set of challenges to overcome.
3. She Missed Out
As expected, Maria Isabella grew up with the perks of a princess. The king and queen royally doted on their youngest daughter—but made a shocking decision in regard to her education. Although they could have blessed their daughter with a rigorous education, the royal couple only provided her access to the bare bones of academia.
After all, there was no need for Maria Isabella to become an impressive intellectual...She only needed to marry well. This deficiency would come around to haunt her in the worst way.
4. She Had To Find The Right Husband
Maria Isabella’s parents showed much enthusiasm in their search for a husband for her. In December 1800, an excellent opportunity arose when Lucien Bonaparte, the brother of Napoleon Bonaparte, became the new French ambassador. Napoleon was then the First Consul of France, and people suggested that he should divorce his wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais, and marry into royalty. That's when Maria Isabella's mother spotted her chance.
