The Real-Life Cinderella—How Louise de Lorraine Became Queen of France

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From a neglected noblewoman to the queen of 16th-century France, Louise de Lorraine's life was a real-life Cinderella story. Born into a noble family in Lorraine, she lost her mother early, and her stepmother's arrival brought hardship and isolation. Despite this, her beauty and kindness remained undiminished. A chance encounter at a royal ball changed her destiny when King Henry III fell in love with her at first sight. Despite opposition and political pressure, he insisted on marrying her. However, becoming queen did not guarantee a fairy-tale ending. Louise faced complex court politics, conflicts within the royal family, and the pressure of being unable to bear children. The unexpected death of Henry III plunged her into profound grief. Thereafter, she wore white mourning clothes for the rest of her life, earning her the title of the "White Queen."