Forgotten Figure
As Uzor embarked on the task of painting Sarah Forbes Bonetta, she found herself immersed in the remarkable history of this overlooked figure. Each detail she uncovered about Bonetta’s life brought a sense of awe and a question: how could such an extraordinary person have been omitted from mainstream historical narratives for over a century? Bonetta’s story was not just a footnote in history; it was a saga of resilience, royalty, and remarkable relationships that transcended continents and cultures.
Uzor realized that her portrait had to do more than just depict Bonetta’s physical likeness; it needed to capture the essence of her spirit, the depth of her experiences, and the impact of her legacy. This project was not just an artistic endeavor; it was a reclamation of a powerful story lost in the shadows of history. Uzor felt a profound responsibility to bring Bonetta’s story to light, giving her the recognition and place in history she rightfully deserved.
Royal Start
Sarah Forbes Bonetta’s life was a tapestry of historical significance from its very outset. When Queen Victoria became her godmother, it marked a remarkable shift in her destiny, but her story began with royal origins in Africa. Born into the Yoruba royal family of the Egbado tribe, her early life in West Africa was set to be one of privilege and power. However, fate had a different path for her.
Her journey from her birthplace to the corridors of the English monarchy was fraught with unimaginable challenges. This transition from a Yoruba princess to a goddaughter of the most powerful monarch of the time was not just a physical journey across continents; it was a dramatic shift in cultural, social, and personal landscapes.
Nostalgic Years
Bonetta’s early years were steeped in the tranquility and security befitting her royal status. As Omoba Aina, she was born to a prince and princess, surrounded by the comforts and traditions of the Egbado royalty in what is now modern-day Nigeria. However, the precarious nature of royal life soon cast a shadow over her idyllic childhood.
The political landscape of the time was turbulent, with rival factions vying for power and control. This instability meant that Aina’s life, despite her royal status, was constantly under threat, a reality that would soon have devastating consequences for her and her family.
War Breaks Out
Tragedy struck Aina’s life when she was just five years old. The Egbado kingdom, her homeland, became engulfed in a brutal conflict with the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey. This war, characterized by its ferocity and bloodshed, ultimately led to the downfall of her family’s reign.
The Dahomean army emerged victorious, and in their wake, they left a trail of destruction. Aina’s parents were killed, and she, along with many others, was captured and enslaved. This marked a harrowing turning point in her life, stripping her of her royal status and thrusting her into a world of unimaginable hardship.
Gloomy New Life
The horrors that young Aina endured following her capture were profound. Taken to the Kingdom of Dahomey, she found herself at the mercy of King Ghezo, a ruler known for his ruthlessness. Reduced to a state of enslavement, she was forced to work in the royal court, a stark contrast to the life of privilege she had known.
-768w.jpeg?w=1024&q=75)
Her days were filled with hardship and toil, as she was compelled to perform whatever tasks the king demanded. This abrupt transition from a life of royalty to one of servitude was a cruel twist of fate, reflecting the brutal realities of power struggles and warfare in West Africa during that era.
No Life For A Youngster
While children of her age were ordinarily engaged in the innocent pursuits of childhood, Aina’s reality was starkly different. Far from the familiar surroundings of her royal home, she found herself in a hostile environment, surrounded by strangers who viewed her as nothing more than a captive. Her days were long and arduous, filled with labor and uncertainty.
The comfort and security of her family were now just distant memories, replaced by the harsh realities of her new life in Dahomey. This period of her life was not only physically demanding but also emotionally and psychologically taxing, as she navigated the challenges of survival in an unforgiving environment.
Terrifying Future
Amidst the daily struggles, a pervasive and terrifying threat loomed over Aina — the Dahomey tradition of ceremonial human sacrifice. This gruesome practice saw the execution of slaves, criminals, and prisoners of war as a display of the kingdom’s might. For two agonizing years, Aina lived under the constant shadow of this threat, each day uncertain if it would be her last.
The fear and anxiety of potentially being chosen for sacrifice weighed heavily on her young mind. However, her life was about to take another unexpected turn when a stranger from the Royal Navy arrived, setting the stage for a new chapter in her extraordinary journey.
Negotiations
E. Forbes of the British Royal Navy, who found himself in the Kingdom of Dahomey on a mission of diplomacy and moral persuasion. Captain Forbes, dispatched by the British government, was tasked with the delicate mission of negotiating with King Ghezo, aiming to convince him to cease his kingdom’s involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. 
Despite the gravity of his mission and the earnestness with which he presented his case, Ghezo remained unmoved by Forbes’s arguments.The fear and anxiety of potentially being chosen for sacrifice weighed heavily on her young mind. However, her life was about to take another unexpected turn when a stranger from the Royal Navy arrived, setting the stage for a new chapter in her extraordinary journey.
Escape Route
The decision to accept Aina was not made lightly by Captain Forbes. He was acutely aware of the dangers that awaited her should she remain in Dahomey, particularly the risk of being killed in one of the kingdom’s ceremonial sacrifices. Thus, accepting Aina into his protection, Forbes effectively granted her freedom under the auspices of the British Empire. This moment marked a pivotal turn in Aina’s life, offering her a sliver of hope amidst the uncertainty that lay ahead.
Yet, despite the newfound safety under Captain Forbes’s guardianship, Aina was beset with apprehension about the journey that lay ahead. The prospect of traversing the vast, tumultuous ocean on the H.M.S. Bonetta, a ship far larger and more formidable than anything she had ever encountered, filled her with a mix of fear and wonder. This journey was not just a physical transition from one continent to another but also a symbolic passage from one life to another.
A New Country
Throughout the voyage back to England, Captain Forbes went to great lengths to ensure Aina’s comfort and well-being, demonstrating a level of care and consideration that went beyond the mere fulfillment of a duty. Recognizing the significance of this new chapter in her life, he bestowed upon her a new name, Sarah Forbes Bonetta, drawing from his own name and that of the vessel that carried them toward her new destiny.
This act of renaming was not just a formality but a profound gesture of reidentification and protection. Upon their arrival in the United Kingdom, Sarah was placed under the stewardship of the British government, marking the beginning of an entirely new existence. Yet, unbeknownst to her, there was another, even more remarkable turn of events awaiting her in her new homeland.
Meeting The Queen
Queen Victoria of England, upon hearing of Sarah Forbes Bonetta’s arrival and her extraordinary story, expressed a keen desire to meet the young girl. Arrangements were made for a royal audience, a meeting that would forever alter the course of Sarah’s life.
During their encounter, Sarah impressed the queen not only with her intelligence and grace but also with the dignity and poise she exhibited, traits that belied her young age and tumultuous past. Moved by Sarah’s story and her remarkable demeanor, Queen Victoria made an unprecedented decision to extend her royal patronage to Sarah, a gesture that signified the queen’s personal commitment to her welfare and future.
Royal Guardianship
Queen Victoria’s decree that Sarah Forbes Bonetta would be raised as her own goddaughter was a testament to the deep impression Sarah had made on the queen. This act of royal benevolence ensured that Sarah would receive the guardianship and education befitting a citizen of the British middle class, an extraordinary departure from her previous life’s circumstances.
Victoria was resolute in her decision, immediately mobilizing the resources and support system necessary to facilitate Sarah’s integration and success within British society. This swift and decisive action reflected not only the queen’s compassionate nature but also her recognition of Sarah’s potential to transcend her origins and contribute to the fabric of British life.
Home And Education
Sarah was soon introduced to her new guardians, the Reverend Frederick Scheon and his wife, who resided in the picturesque county of Kent in southeastern England. This placement marked the beginning of a stable and nurturing phase in Sarah’s life, where she was welcomed into a caring and supportive household.
The queen’s personal investment in Sarah’s education was evident in her decision to cover the expenses of her schooling, ensuring that Sarah received the best possible education. This period was characterized by a sense of normalcy and belonging, as Sarah began to navigate her new life with the confidence and support of her guardians and the queen. However, despite the promising start, Sarah’s adjustment to life in England was not without its challenges.
Better Weather
One significant obstacle that emerged was Sarah’s health; at the age of eight, she developed a chronic cough, a condition exacerbated by England’s damp and cold climate. This development was a source of concern for both her guardians and Queen Victoria, who were all keenly aware of the need to safeguard Sarah’s well-being. In response to this health crisis, a decision was made to send Sarah to a boarding school in Sierra Leone, a move aimed at providing her with a warmer climate that would be more conducive to her recovery.
This decision underscored the collective commitment of those involved in Sarah’s care to prioritize her health and well-being. Her time in Sierra Leone, spanning several years, offered her not only the chance to recuperate but also to continue her education in a setting that was, in some ways, closer to her cultural roots, yet under the protective and guiding influence of the British Empire.
High Society
Upon her return to the United Kingdom, Sarah Forbes Bonetta’s engagement with British society blossomed in truly remarkable ways, signaling the beginning of an adventurous chapter in her life. Immersing herself in the cultural and social milieu of her new home, she undertook the study of French, mastering the language with a proficiency that allowed her to converse fluently with the Francophone members of the elite circles she now frequented. Music became a passion for her, and she developed into a skilled musician, her talents on the piano being particularly noted for their grace and sensitivity.
Her unique position as a goddaughter to Queen Victoria opened doors to the highest echelons of British society, where she was received with a mixture of curiosity and admiration. Her attendance at the private wedding of Queen Victoria’s daughter, Princess Alice, was a testament to her integration and acceptance within the royal family’s inner circle. This event was a precursor to another significant milestone in her life, as it wasn’t long before she, too, would experience the joys and solemnities of marriage, marking another significant chapter in her extraordinary journey.
Prosperous Marriage
The year of her marriage marked a pivotal moment for Bonetta, as she wed Captain James Davies, a man of considerable stature and wealth, known for his business acumen within the Yoruba community and beyond. Their union was a harmonious blend of cultures, celebrated with enthusiasm by both British and West African societies. Choosing to establish their life together in West Africa, they embarked on a journey that promised new beginnings and the opportunity to make a profound impact on their community.
Throughout her life, Bonetta maintained a deep and enduring connection with Queen Victoria, a relationship founded on mutual respect and affection. This bond was further cemented when she named her firstborn daughter Victoria Davies, in honor of the queen, who graciously accepted the role of godmother once again, extending her patronage to a new generation. This gesture underscored the lasting personal connection between Bonetta and the queen, a relationship that transcended the ordinary bounds of godparent and godchild.
Emergency Protection
Sarah Forbes Bonetta enjoyed a level of protection and regard from the British Crown that was extraordinarily rare for the time, a testament to her unique position within the royal affections and the high esteem in which she was held by Queen Victoria herself. Recognizing the potential dangers Bonetta could face due to political unrest in Lagos, the queen issued a standing order to the Royal Navy to ensure her safety at a moment’s notice.
This privilege, highlighting her importance to the queen, underscored the lengths to which Victoria was prepared to go to ensure Bonetta’s well-being. However, this protective measure, while profound in its intention, underscored the complexities of Bonetta’s situation, as it did not extend to her husband or children, reflecting the nuances and limitations of her extraordinary position within the British Empire.
Successful Family And Business
The family life of Sarah Forbes Bonetta and Captain James Davies flourished in West Africa, where they were blessed with three children: Victoria, Arthur, and Stella. Their life together was marked by prosperity and innovation, notably through Captain Davies’s pioneering work in introducing cocoa farming to the region, a venture that would have far-reaching effects on West Africa’s economy.
This period was a time of professional success and personal joy for the family, yet it was not without its challenges. Despite the more favorable climate of West Africa for Bonetta’s health, the persistent cough that had plagued her since her childhood in England continued to be a source of concern, a reminder of the delicate balance between her new life and the vulnerabilities of her health.
Health Struggles
Tragically, in August of 1880, while on a trip to Portugal, Bonetta’s health took a dire turn. Stricken with tuberculosis, her condition deteriorated rapidly, and she succumbed to the disease at the age of thirty-seven, far from her family and the life she had built in West Africa. Her death was a profound loss, mourned by her family, community, and those who had known her in England.
Although her passing was not widely commemorated in England at the time, her legacy continued to resonate in the hearts of those who loved her and through the monuments erected in her honor by her husband and the community in Lagos, a testament to her impact and the indelible mark she left on those around her.
Her Legacy
Today, Sarah Forbes Bonetta’s legacy has been reevaluated and celebrated in a manner befitting her remarkable life and contributions. Her portrait now occupies a place of honor in the Osborne museum, a fitting tribute to her memory and her unique place in British and West African history.
Beyond this, her descendants have carried forward her legacy of resilience and achievement, with notable figures such as Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh, her great-great-granddaughter, playing a pivotal role in combating the Ebola crisis in 2014. This enduring legacy serves as a testament to Bonetta’s strength, intelligence, and the profound influence she has had, bridging continents and generations.
The Forgotten Princess
The narrative of royal affiliations and hidden stories extends beyond Sarah Forbes Bonetta to include figures such as Alice of Battenberg, named after her grandmother, Princess Alice of the United Kingdom, whom Bonetta had once seen marry. From the outset, Alice of Battenberg’s life was shaped by significant challenges, including health struggles that demanded resilience and determination.
Her position as a royal did not shield her from adversity; instead, it required her to navigate her difficulties with dignity and courage, embodying the complex interplay of privilege and personal hardship that characterized the lives of many within the royal circles.
Royal Blood
Christened Victoria Alice Elizabeth Julia Marie, Princess Alice’s heritage connected her to two illustrious houses, Battenberg and Hesse and by Rhine, imbuing her life with a sense of duty and expectation. Yet, despite her noble lineage, Alice faced her own set of trials, notably a debilitating health condition that tested her strength and resolve.
-768w.jpg?w=1024&q=75)
Her story, like that of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, underscores the universality of human challenges and the capacity for resilience, regardless of one’s social or royal status, highlighting the intricate tapestry of personal and historical narratives that define our shared human experience.
Debilitating Condition
Princess Alice was ushered into the world under circumstances that immediately set her apart. Born into royalty, she was expected to embody the grace and composure befitting her station. Yet, from an early age, Alice faced challenges that would test her resilience far beyond the expectations placed upon her by her birthright. Her delayed speech development, a condition likely caused by congenital hearing loss, presented an obstacle that, at the time, was insurmountable by medical science.
The lack of treatments available meant that Alice had to navigate a world of silence, a reality made all the more challenging by the expectations of royal decorum and the imperative to conceal her condition from the public eye. In an era when disabilities were often misunderstood and stigmatized, especially within the upper echelons of society, Alice’s journey was one of quiet endurance and ingenuity. Despite these challenges, she learned to adapt, developing the ability to read lips with remarkable proficiency, a skill that allowed her to engage with the world around her in a way few could have anticipated.
Clever Princess
The royal family, keenly aware of the importance of appearances and the preservation of their esteemed reputation, imposed strictures on Alice that would seem draconian by today’s standards. Princess Victoria, in particular, was adamant that Alice should never expose her impairment or allow it to be perceived as a weakness. This directive placed an immense burden on young Alice, who was forbidden even the simplest requests for repetition in conversation, a rule that underscored the isolation imposed by her condition.
Yet, Alice’s resolve and intelligence shone through these constraints. She mastered the art of lip-reading, a testament to her determination and a crucial adaptation that enabled her to navigate the complexities of royal life and societal interactions. This skill, developed under such stringent conditions, would prove to be an invaluable asset, particularly as the specter of war loomed on the horizon, a time during which her strength and resilience would be called upon in ways she could never have imagined.
Trouble In Greece
The transition from the sheltered corridors of British royalty to the tumultuous landscape of early 20th-century Greece was a profound one for Princess Alice. Marrying Prince Andrew of Greece placed her at the epicenter of a nation soon to be embroiled in the violent throes of the Balkan Wars. The upheaval of war brought out a side of Alice that few might have predicted, showcasing her depth of character and unwavering spirit.
Her husband’s enlistment in the navy was a call to arms that Alice herself answered in her own way. Unwilling to remain a passive observer to the unfolding human tragedy, she stepped into a role that defied traditional expectations of royal women, engaging directly with the war effort in a manner that bridged the gap between royal obligation and humanitarian action.
Lending a Hand
Princess Alice’s foray into the realm of wartime service was marked by a hands-on approach that was both unprecedented and audacious. Working in close coordination with medical professionals, she played a pivotal role in orchestrating medical supply drops to front-line units, a logistical feat that saved countless lives. Beyond the immediate challenges of supply and coordination, Alice took it upon herself to establish hospitals, literally building the infrastructure needed to care for the wounded from the ground up.
Her involvement went beyond the administrative; she was intimately involved in the day-to-day care of soldiers, offering solace and support in their darkest hours. This direct engagement in the war effort was a reflection of Alice’s profound sense of duty and compassion, attributes that would come to define her legacy.
Hard-Working Princess
The conditions under which Princess Alice and her colleagues operated were far from ideal. Resources were scarce, and the realities of war brought home the dire circumstances faced by those on the front lines. Through her correspondence, Alice relayed the stark challenges of life in a war-torn country, painting a vivid picture of the struggles endured by those dedicated to healing and helping.
Yet, through these trials, Alice’s commitment to her cause never wavered. She recognized the significance of her efforts, driven by a belief in the nobility of her cause and the tangible difference she was making in the lives of those affected by the conflict. Her dedication was a beacon of hope and a testament to her strength of character, qualities that did not go unnoticed by her native country.
Recognized By Family
The recognition of Princess Alice’s contributions to the war effort came from an unexpected quarter. King George V of England, a distant cousin, acknowledged her service in a manner befitting her noble birth and her extraordinary commitment. She was awarded the Royal Red Cross, a prestigious honor that recognized her selfless service in nursing the sick and wounded among Greek soldiers.
This accolade from her homeland stood in stark contrast to the reception she received in Greece, where her efforts, though no less significant, were overshadowed by the complexities of the political and social climate. The award was a rare moment of acknowledgment that bridged national boundaries, highlighting the universal value of humanitarian aid and compassion.
Falling Out of Favor
Following the turmoil of the Balkan Wars, Greece was plunged into a period of intense political instability, a situation exacerbated by the outbreak of World War I. The escalating crisis put unprecedented pressure on the Greek royal family, eroding their standing and favor in the eyes of the public and the government. Princess Alice, along with her family, found themselves navigating a precarious position as the tides of public opinion turned against them.
This period marked a significant challenge for Alice, who had already faced personal trials and tribulations with remarkable resilience. The political unrest and the royal family’s declining favor represented a new kind of adversity, one that tested not only Alice’s strength but also her ability to adapt to an ever-changing and often hostile environment.
Exiled
Prince Andrew’s tenure in the Greek Navy was marred by controversy and conflict, culminating in a dramatic turn of events that would forever alter the course of his life. Despite his elevated status as a naval commander, Andrew found himself embroiled in a contentious situation that led to accusations of insubordination. The charges against him were severe enough to prompt a formal trial, a public spectacle that brought his military career to an ignominious end. The outcome was as drastic as it was humiliating: Andrew was banished from Greece, a decree that severed him from his homeland and his position within the naval forces.
This expulsion was not just a personal blow to Andrew but also cast a shadow over his family, forcing them into an uncertain future. The prince, who had dedicated his life to serving his country, now found himself ostracized, a victim of the very institution he had served. This period marked a significant low point in Andrew’s life, stripping him of his identity as a military man and setting him on a path fraught with adversity and exile.
On the Run
The sudden upheaval thrust Prince Andrew and Princess Alice, along with their two young daughters, into a state of flux, compelling them to seek refuge far from the turmoil of their native Greece. France became their sanctuary, thanks to the generosity of Prince Andrew’s sister-in-law, Marie, who opened her Parisian home to the displaced royal family. Marie’s hospitality provided a semblance of stability in a time of profound disarray, ensuring that the family was well cared for during their involuntary sojourn.
-768w.jpg?w=1024&q=75)
Despite the comfort and security afforded by Marie’s kindness, Princess Alice was not content to simply accept this charity passively. She was determined to contribute to the wellbeing of her family, to maintain a sense of agency and purpose even in exile. This resolve led her to seek out means of supporting her family, a testament to her resourcefulness and independence in the face of adversity.
Supporting Her Family
Princess Alice’s decision to forge her own path in Paris was driven by a desire to assert her autonomy and contribute to her family’s support, despite the assurance of their host that they would want for nothing. She turned to her skills and cultural heritage for inspiration, embarking on an endeavor to create and sell embroidered items and other Greek artifacts. This enterprise was more than just a means of financial support; it was a symbolic connection to the homeland they had been forced to leave behind.
Alice’s efforts in Paris served multiple purposes: they provided a modest income for her family, kept her connected to her Greek roots, and allowed her to maintain a sense of dignity and purpose during a tumultuous period. Her work became a tangible expression of resilience, a way to weather the storm of exile while holding onto hope for a return to Greece.
Change of Plans
The hope of returning to Greece was a constant undercurrent during the family’s exile in Paris. However, the outbreak of the Greco-Turkish War added another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation, effectively dashing any immediate plans for their return. The prolonged conflict not only exacerbated the political instability in their homeland but also entrenched the family’s status as exiles.
The uncertainty of the situation, coupled with the ongoing tensions back home, cast a long shadow over their lives in Paris, transforming what had been envisioned as a temporary stay into an indefinite limbo. This period of exile was marked by a pervasive sense of displacement and longing, as the family grappled with the realities of their situation and the growing realization that their ties to Greece were becoming increasingly tenuous.
Red-Stained Chaos
The turmoil of the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917 brought the world to a turning point, with reverberations felt far beyond the borders of Russia. For Princess Alice, the revolution had a deeply personal impact, as it led to the tragic deaths of her aunts, Elizabeth and Alix, both of whom had married into the Romanov dynasty. The execution of her relatives by the revolutionaries was a devastating blow, one that compounded the already considerable strain on Alice’s mental and emotional wellbeing.
The loss of her family members under such violent circumstances was a stark reminder of the fragility of royal existence in a changing world. This personal tragedy marked a critical point in Alice’s life, exacerbating her existing vulnerabilities and setting the stage for a profound psychological crisis. The impact of these events on Alice was profound, stripping away any remaining semblance of stability and precipitating a decline in her mental health.
Growing Family
In the midst of personal and political upheaval, the family continued to grow, with Alice and Andrew welcoming three more children: Cecilie, Sophie, and the future Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. This expansion of their family brought moments of joy and normalcy to their lives, yet it also placed additional demands on Alice, who was already navigating significant challenges. As the children matured, they became increasingly aware of their mother’s deteriorating condition, witnessing firsthand the toll that her mental and physical health issues were taking on her.
This period was characterized by a complex interplay of family dynamics, as the children grappled with the reality of their mother’s illness and the impact it had on their collective wellbeing. The situation underscored the fragility of Alice’s state, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support.
Getting Help
The culmination of years of struggle and suffering led to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia for Princess Alice, a development that both explained and compounded the difficulties she had faced. Institutionalization followed, a decision that, while fraught with stigma and sorrow, was deemed necessary for her to receive the specialized care she required. Alice’s time in the institution was a period of intense treatment and reflection, leading to signs of improvement that eventually made it possible for her to return home.
However, Prince Andrew’s reaction to her return was marked by skepticism and a failure to recognize the changes in her condition. This response reflected the complexities of mental illness and the challenges of reconciling the person Alice had been with the person she was becoming. Her journey through mental illness and recovery highlighted the limitations of understanding and empathy of the time, and underscored the enduring strength and resilience of Princess Alice amidst the trials of her extraordinary life.
Growing Apart
The relationship between Princess Alice and Prince Andrew underwent profound changes over the years, marred by long periods of separation that widened the gap between them. For nearly six years, an expanse of silence and distance enveloped the couple, rendering them strangers to each other’s lives. This prolonged absence culminated in a brief reunion in 1937, a meeting that was tinged with sadness rather than joy. The occasion that drew them together was far from a celebratory one, highlighting the deep fissures that had developed in their relationship over time.
This period of separation and the circumstances of their reunion reflect the complex dynamics of their marriage, a relationship that had been tested by exile, personal tragedy, and the pressures of royal duty. The emotional distance that had grown between them was a testament to the challenges they faced, both as individuals and as a couple, navigating the turbulent waters of their lives. Their brief encounter in 1937 served as a poignant reminder of what had been lost in the intervening years, a moment of connection overshadowed by the weight of shared sorrow and unresolved tension.
Growing Family
In the midst of personal and political upheaval, the family continued to grow, with Alice and Andrew welcoming three more children: Cecilie, Sophie, and the future Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. This expansion of their family brought moments of joy and normalcy to their lives, yet it also placed additional demands on Alice, who was already navigating significant challenges. As the children matured, they became increasingly aware of their mother’s deteriorating condition, witnessing firsthand the toll that her mental and physical health issues were taking on her.
This period was characterized by a complex interplay of family dynamics, as the children grappled with the reality of their mother’s illness and the impact it had on their collective wellbeing. The situation underscored the fragility of Alice’s state, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and support.
Getting Help
The culmination of years of struggle and suffering led to a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia for Princess Alice, a development that both explained and compounded the difficulties she had faced. Institutionalization followed, a decision that, while fraught with stigma and sorrow, was deemed necessary for her to receive the specialized care she required. Alice’s time in the institution was a period of intense treatment and reflection, leading to signs of improvement that eventually made it possible for her to return home.
However, Prince Andrew’s reaction to her return was marked by skepticism and a failure to recognize the changes in her condition. This response reflected the complexities of mental illness and the challenges of reconciling the person Alice had been with the person she was becoming. Her journey through mental illness and recovery highlighted the limitations of understanding and empathy of the time, and underscored the enduring strength and resilience of Princess Alice amidst the trials of her extraordinary life.
Growing Apart
The relationship between Princess Alice and Prince Andrew underwent profound changes over the years, marred by long periods of separation that widened the gap between them. For nearly six years, an expanse of silence and distance enveloped the couple, rendering them strangers to each other’s lives. This prolonged absence culminated in a brief reunion in 1937, a meeting that was tinged with sadness rather than joy. The occasion that drew them together was far from a celebratory one, highlighting the deep fissures that had developed in their relationship over time.
This period of separation and the circumstances of their reunion reflect the complex dynamics of their marriage, a relationship that had been tested by exile, personal tragedy, and the pressures of royal duty. The emotional distance that had grown between them was a testament to the challenges they faced, both as individuals and as a couple, navigating the turbulent waters of their lives. Their brief encounter in 1937 served as a poignant reminder of what had been lost in the intervening years, a moment of connection overshadowed by the weight of shared sorrow and unresolved tension.
Tragic Loss
The year 1937 brought with it a tragedy that would forever mark the lives of those within the royal family. Cecilie, Princess Alice’s daughter, along with her husband and two of their children, perished in a catastrophic air accident in Belgium. This calamity sent shockwaves through the family, a loss so profound that it threatened to shatter the fragile equilibrium Alice had fought so hard to maintain. Yet, in the face of this immense personal grief, Alice demonstrated a remarkable fortitude.
Rather than succumbing to despair, she channeled her sorrow into a renewed purpose, making the decision to return to Greece alone. There, amidst the chaos and uncertainty of a nation on the brink of war, Alice found solace in service, dedicating herself to humanitarian efforts. This decision to transform her grief into a force for good was a testament to her resilience and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need, even in the midst of her own profound loss.
Making a Difference
As World War II cast its shadow over Europe, Nazi Germany’s aggressive expansion brought turmoil and fear to the countries it invaded, including Greece. While many sought safety in flight from the encroaching danger, Princess Alice made the extraordinary decision to remain in Athens, steadfast in her resolve to continue her humanitarian work. Her role as a member of the Red Cross became the conduit through which she could offer aid and comfort to those affected by the war.
Living in modest accommodations far removed from the trappings of royalty, she dedicated herself to working in soup kitchens, providing sustenance to the hungry, and securing aid for orphaned children. In the face of adversity, Alice’s efforts were characterized by a profound sense of compassion and an unwavering commitment to alleviate suffering. Her actions during this time highlighted her deep connection to the people of Greece and her determination to contribute positively, using whatever means were available to her.
Taking Sides
Princess Alice’s moral convictions and humanitarian efforts during the war also placed her in a position of quiet resistance against the Nazi regime. This stance, however, brought her into conflict with certain members of her own family, as two of her daughters were married to German officers, aligning part of her family with the very forces she opposed.
The complexities of these familial ties were further complicated by her son, Philip, who took a stand against the Axis powers by joining the British Royal Navy. The divergent paths taken by members of her family underscored the deep ideological divides that the war had wrought, even within a single family. Alice’s opposition to the Nazis was a bold statement of her values, a stance that spoke to her integrity and courage in the face of widespread oppression and violence.
Healing the World
The aftermath of World War II left Europe in ruins, with the physical and emotional scars of conflict evident across the continent. It was against this backdrop of devastation that Princess Alice sought to bring healing and hope to those most affected by the war’s destruction. In 1949, she founded the Christian Sisterhood of Martha and Mary, an order of Greek Orthodox nuns dedicated to serving the needy and fostering reconciliation and recovery in the post-war world.
This initiative was a reflection of Alice’s deep faith and her belief in the power of compassion and service to transcend the divisions and wounds left by the war. Despite the noble intentions behind the founding of the sisterhood, Alice faced challenges in attracting followers to her cause, a struggle that highlighted the difficulties of rebuilding in the war’s aftermath and the complexities of religious and social work in a time of widespread upheaval.
Final Days
The final years of Princess Alice’s life were marked by declining health and a sense of completion of her life’s work. In 1967, recognizing the limitations imposed by her health and the changing circumstances of her life, Alice made the decision to leave Greece, the country that had been the backdrop to so much of her service and dedication. Her departure was not just a physical relocation but a closing of a significant chapter in her life. With her son, Prince Philip, now firmly established within the British monarchy, Alice was invited to spend her remaining days in the United Kingdom, at Buckingham Palace.
This invitation offered her a place within the heart of her family, providing comfort and support in her final years. Alice’s death in 1969 at the age of 84 marked the end of an extraordinary journey, leaving behind a legacy defined by resilience, compassion, and a profound commitment to serving others. Her life’s story, marked by personal challenges, public service, and unwavering faith, continues to inspire those who seek to make a positive impact in the world.
