Who married Frederick William I of Prussia?
Sophia Dorothea of Hanover married Frederick William I of Prussia on . Friedrich Wilhelm I of Prussia was 18 years old on the wedding day (18 years, 3 months and 14 days). Sophia Dorothea of Hanover was 19 years old on the wedding day (19 years, 8 months and 12 days). The age gap was 1 years, 4 months and 29 days.
The marriage lasted 33 years, 6 months and 3 days (12238 days ). The marriage ended on .
Frederick William I of Prussia
Frederick William I (German: Friedrich Wilhelm I.; 14 August 1688 – 31 May 1740), known as the Soldier King (German: Soldatenkönig), was King in Prussia and Elector of Brandenburg from 1713 until his death in 1740, as well as Prince of Neuchâtel.
Born in Berlin, he was raised by the Huguenot governess Marthe de Roucoulle. His political awakening occurred during the Great Northern War's plague outbreak in Prussia, leading to his challenge against corruption and inefficiency in government. He initiated reforms, especially in the military, doubling the Prussian Army and increased the officer corps to 3,000. A believer in absolute monarchy, he focused on state development and financial reorganization, imposing taxes and stringent regulations on public servants. He made efforts to reduce crime, corruption and centralized his authority during his 27 years' reign, cementing Prussia as a regional power.
Despite his effective rule, he had a harsh nature, exacerbated by his health issues. He engaged in colonial affairs, but prioritized military expansion over colonial investments. His notable decisions included selling Prussian overseas colonies and the foundation of the Canton system, as well as the conquest of the port of Stettin.
His death in 1740 marked the end of a reign characterized by military and administrative reform. He was succeeded by his son, Frederick the Great.
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Sophia Dorothea of Hanover
Zofia Dorota Hanowerska (ur. 16 marca 1687 w Celle, zm. 28 czerwca 1757 w Berlinie) – królowa Prus.
Była jedyną córką króla Wielkiej Brytanii, Jerzego I oraz jego żony Zofii Doroty z Celle, księżniczki Ahlden (Aller).
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