Napoleons Schwiegersohn

How does one become the son-in-law of the most powerful man in Europe? What is it like to live with a woman who believes she deserves a better husband? How often must one yield when an absolute ruler makes demands? How can one save their skin when an alliance of all European powers seeks to bring down the powerful father-in-law? How can a country made up of small and tiny principalities be structured and organized so that it can be governed and withstand turbulent times? The present work provides answers in the first comprehensive biography of Grand Duke Karl Ludwig Friedrich of Baden. It offers insight into a controversial ruler, many of whose contemporaries doubted his ability to govern. Some excused his character flaws by pointing to a troubled upbringing. However, despite all the justified criticism of his person, it must be acknowledged that he knew how to surround himself with wise advisors and listened to them. His lasting achievement is that he granted the state of Baden the first liberal constitution in Germany.