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Sunday, November 17, 2024

Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of King George Ill, was indeed the first black queen of England. Born in 1744 in Germany, she became queen consort in 1761 when she married George Ill.


Sophia Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of King George Ill, was indeed the first black queen of England. Born in 1744 in Germany, she became queen consort in 1761 when she married George Ill.

Though there has been debate about her exact racial heritage, some historians believe she had African ancestry through a branch of the Portuguese royal family. 

Her lineage has been traced back to a 13th-century Portuguese noblewoman, Margarita de Castro e Sousa, who is believed to have been of African descent.


Sophia Charlotte was known for her intelligence, grace, and support for the arts. She was a patron of many musicians, writers, and intellectuals of her time. 

Her reign coincided with the height of the Enlightenment period, and she was known for her interest in philosophy and science.

Several books explore her life and legacy, delving into her role as queen consort and her impact on British society. One notable example is "Queen Charlotte: A Biography" by Olwen Hedley, which provides a comprehensive look at her life, from her upbringing in Germany to her years as queen consort. Another book worth mentioning is "Black Tudors: 

The Untold Story" by Miranda Kaufmann, which examines the presence of people of African descent in Tudor England and provides context for Sophia Charlotte's place in history.

 Sophia Charlotte's story is a fascinating one, highlighting the diverse and complex history of the British monarchy.

 While her racial heritage has sometimes been overlooked or downplayed, her reign as queen consort left a lasting impact on British society and culture.

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