Carol II.
King of Romania, 1893-1953
Carol was the eldest son of Ferdinand I and became crown prince upon the death of his grand-uncle, King Carol I in 1914. He was the first member of the Romanian branch of the Hohenzollerns who spoke Romanian as his first language. He possessed a hedonistic personality that contributed to the controversies marring his reign. His reign (1930-1940) was marked by re-alignment with Nazi Germany, adoption of anti-semitic laws and ultimately evolved into a personal dictatorship beginning in 1938. On 6 September 1940, he was forced by his Prime Minister Ion Antonescu to leave the country and withdraw abroad into exile. He was succeeded by his son Michael.
Source:
König von Rumänien (1893-1953). Autograph letter signed ("[...] Child"). Tárgul Neamt (Târgu Neamt). 03.06.1918. 3½ SS. auf Doppelblatt. Gr.-8vo. Mit eh. adr. Kuvert.
$ 3,213 / 2.800 €
(32968/BN27696)
To his mistress "Madmoiselle Zizi Lambrino", i.e. Ioana Maria Marie Valentina Lambrino, known as "Zizi" (1898-1953): [...] My love dear why is our poor life so awful[l]y sad. We do love each other so madly more than wey can say [...]". - Green ink on very thin paper; somewhat browned.