Many think of a person who ascends to the throne to be full of life experience and wisdom accumulated over time. Yet, there exists fascinating tales of young minds, some barely in their single digits, who found themselves at the helm of powerful kingdoms. The following are the remarkable stories of kings and queens who defied age-related expectations, navigating the complexities of ruling Kingdoms and leaving an indelible mark on the pages of history.
Shah Shapur II of Persia: Crowned in Utero
The Persian Dynasty witnessed an unconventional coronation when Shah Shapur II’s journey to power began before his birth. A crown placed on his mother’s pregnant belly marked the inception of a leadership destined to become legendary. Shah Shapur II, a strong military leader, retaliated against enemies and reclaimed territories, leaving Persia stronger than he inherited it.
- Age: Lived to an unknown age (309-379 CE)
- Birthplace: Unknown
Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots: A Royal Pronouncement at Six Days Old
In 1542, Mary Stuart became Queen of Scots at the mere age of six days, defying expectations. Her life was marked by political turmoil, betrothals, hidden sanctuaries, and a tragic end that included imprisonment and execution.
- Age: Deceased at 44 (1542-1587)
- Birthplace: Linlithgow Palace, Linlithgow, United Kingdom
Emperor Hedi of the Eastern Han Dynasty: Guided by Elders at Nine Years Old
Liu Zhao, later known as Emperor Hedi, assumed the throne of the Eastern Han Dynasty in China at the tender age of nine. Initially guided by his grandmother and great-uncle, he weathered natural disasters, alleviated common people’s struggles, and left a legacy of benevolence and controversy.
- Age: Deceased at 20 (93 BC-73 BC)
King Oyo of Toro: Uganda’s Youngest Ruler at Three
In 1995, King Oyo of Toro inherited the throne at a mere three years old, becoming Uganda’s youngest ruler. With regents including his aunt and mother, King Oyo focused on social welfare, economic projects, and education, showcasing the potential of youthful leadership.
- Age: 31
- Birthplace: Uganda
Sobhuza II of Swaziland: A King at Four Months Old
Sobhuza II, an African ruler, received the title of king at four months old and held it for an astounding 80 years. His reign secured independence from Britain, wrote a constitution, and bridged traditional Swazi practices with modern governance, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and tradition.
- Age: Deceased at 83 (1899-1982)
- Birthplace: Zombodze
Ptolemy VI Philometor of Egypt: A Pharaoh at Six
In 180 BCE, Ptolemy VI Philometor of the Ptolemaic Kingdom ascended to the throne at the age of six, facing challenges during the Syrian Wars. His reign demonstrated resilience in the face of political turmoil and power politics.
- Age: Lived to an unknown age (186-145 BCE)
- Birthplace: Alexandria, Egypt
Joan II of Navarre: A Queen at One
Joan II of Navarre became Queen of Navarre at the age of one in 1328, navigating conflicts and changing allegiances during her reign. She was the only child of Louis X of France.
- Age: Deceased at 44 (1312-1350)
- Birthplace: Bar-sur-Seine, France
Louis XVII of France: The Unfortunate Dauphin
Louis XVII became the Dauphin (the eldest son of the King) of France at four following the French Revolution. His tragic life, spent mostly in captivity, marked the end of the direct Bourbon line in France. His mother was Marie Antoinette who was taken away from him just before she was executed.
- Age: Deceased at 10 (1785-1795)
- Birthplace: Versailles, France
Afonso V of Portugal: Crowned at Six
Afonso V of Portugal ascended to the throne at the age of six in 1438. His reign faced challenges such as the War of the Castilian Succession, showcasing determination and resilience.
- Age: Deceased at 49 (1432-1481)
- Birthplace: Sintra, Portugal
Henry VI of England: A Child King in Troubled Times
Henry VI became King of England at nine months in 1422 after his father Henry V and grandfather Charles VI of France died within months of each other. During King Henry VI’s rule, he faced the Hundred Years’ War between England and France and internal strife. His reign was marked by a period of political instability in England.
- Age: Deceased at 49 (1421-1471)
- Birthplace: Windsor, England
Tutankhamun: The Boy Pharaoh
Tutankhamun, the Boy Pharaoh, ascended to the throne of Egypt at the age of nine, attempting to restore traditional Egyptian religion and artistic styles. Tutankhamun, who is also referred to as King Tut, ruled at a time of constant conflict and battles with Egypt’s neighbor, the Kingdom of Nubia. Scientists believe he died from either malaria or a degenerative bone disease.
- Age: Deceased at 18 (1341-1323 BCE)
- Birthplace: Possibly Akhetaten, Egypt
A Glimpse into the Lavish World of Royal Spending
Royalty around the world has long been associated with opulence and luxury, often showcasing their immense wealth through extravagant purchases and indulgent lifestyles. Here, we delve into some of the most lavish and unnecessary things that royals have been known to spend their fortunes on.
A Glimpse into the Lavish World of Royal Spending
Celebrities Who Were Teenage Parents
In the glitzy world of Hollywood, some stars’ journeys to parenthood began during their teenage years. While it’s true that it doesn’t have quite the same stigma today as it did decades ago, it’s still surprising to hear about celebrities who were teenage parents. Despite the challenges they faced, these celebrities embraced their roles as young parents, navigating fame and parenthood simultaneously.
Celebrities Who Were Teenage Parents
The Incredible Journey of Talented Stars Raised by the Worst Parents
Child stars are often seen as the epitome of success in the entertainment industry. But a darker reality lies behind the glamour and fame. The pressures of celebrity, money, and fame can take a devastating toll on young actors. What if the people who are supposed to protect them – their parents – are causing the most harm?
Shockingly, many child stars come from troubled backgrounds, with parents who struggled with addiction, mental health issues, or violent behavior. These factors can profoundly impact the child’s development, both during their time in the spotlight and long after the cameras have stopped rolling. In this list, we’ll look at 10 child stars who have fallen victim to their parents’ neglect and abuse.
The Incredible Journey of Talented Stars Raised by the Worst Parents