What is archduchess elisabeth marie of austria?

Archduchess Elisabeth Marie of Austria was born on September 2, 1883, in Reichenau, Austria. She was the only daughter of Archduke Rudolf of Austria and his wife, Princess Stéphanie of Belgium. She was also the granddaughter of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria and Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi.

Elisabeth Marie lived a somewhat lonely childhood, as she was not allowed to play with other children her age. She was educated by private tutors and spent most of her time with her parents, who were very protective of her.

In 1900, Elisabeth Marie's father died in circumstances that remain mysterious to this day. It is believed that he committed suicide after murdering his mistress, Baroness Maria Vetsera, at the Mayerling hunting lodge.

Elisabeth Marie inherited the title of Archduchess of Austria from her father, but her mother was not pleased with the inheritance and fought to have it stripped from her. However, Emperor Franz Joseph I intervened and confirmed Elisabeth Marie's status as a member of the imperial family.

Elisabeth Marie married Prince Otto Windisch-Graetz, a member of an old aristocratic family, in 1902. They had two sons but divorced in 1924 due to irreconcilable differences.

During World War I, Elisabeth Marie served as a nurse and worked for the Red Cross. She also founded a society to help wounded soldiers.

Elisabeth Marie was known for her independent spirit and strong character. She died on March 16, 1963, in Vienna, Austria, at the age of 79.