ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on the years 1720–1744. In Berlin, at the court of her father and then at the court of her brother Frederick II (1712–1786), the princess mixed with politicians, army officers, artists and writers. It also focuses on Louisa Ulrika's marriage, her first years in Sweden, and her first political battles and victories as a political agent. The book explores the princess's political, intellectual, and dynastic background, thus highlighting the origins of her political ideals and convictions. It describes the political experiences and activities of Louisa Ulrika as queen of Sweden (1751–1756). The book examines the last years of Louisa Ulrika and the handover of power to her son Gustav III. Adolf Fredrik died unexpectedly in 1771; his eldest son Gustav became King Gustav III.
