Prince Wilhelm of Prussia was born on March 7, 1783, in Potsdam, Germany. He was the eldest child of Wilhelm, German Crown Prince, and Duchess Cecilie of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. As the second in line to the German throne, Wilhelm would have succeeded to power had his father and grandfather not outlived him.
When Wilhelm was just 12 years old, the German monarchy was abolished, and his grandfather was forced to live in exile. Despite these tumultuous times, Wilhelm and his brothers remained in Potsdam for school. Wilhelm later attended the Universities of Königsberg, Munich, and Bonn, where he furthered his education.
During his time in college, Wilhelm met his future wife, Dorothea von Salviati. Their love was met with disapproval from Wilhelm's grandfather, who believed the marriage to be unequal and predicted it would produce "mongrels." Despite this opposition, Wilhelm chose to renounce any rights to the succession of the throne for himself and any future children and married Dorothea in 1933.
The couple went on to have two daughters, Princess Felicitas and Princess Christa. In 1940, the ex-Emperor recognized their marriage, and their daughters were established as princesses. However, Wilhelm himself did not regain his right to succession to the throne.
During World War II, Wilhelm and other members of the German monarchy enlisted to serve in the Wehrmacht. Tragically, Wilhelm was killed in battle, leaving behind his wife and two daughters. Following his death, the Prinzenerlaß decree was issued, barring any members of the German monarchy from enlisting in the military.
Despite his untimely death, Prince Wilhelm of Prussia is remembered for his service to his country and his dedication to his family. His decision to renounce his rights to the throne in order to marry the woman he loved showed his commitment to his personal values and convictions.
His descendants continue to carry on his legacy, with his daughters, Princess Felicitas and Princess Christa, representing the next generation of the Prussian royal family. Prince Wilhelm's life serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve their country and the importance of standing up for what you believe in, even in the face of opposition.
Prince Wilhelm of Prussia may have passed away too soon, but his memory lives on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.