Memoirs (Vieux Souvenirs) of the Prince de Joinville

"Memoirs (Vieux Souvenirs) of the Prince de Joinville" by Joinville is a historical memoir written during the mid-19th century that recounts the early life of Prince Louis-Philippe, the Duke of Joinville, a member of the French royal family. The narrative begins with the prince's childhood memories, detailing his upbringing in a royal household, his early education, and his impressions of significant events such as family gatherings, royal ceremonies, and the political atmosphere of France during his formative years. The memoir also explores the personalities within the royal family and influential figures of the time. The opening of the memoir introduces the reader to the prince's life beginning with his birth in 1818 and his early experiences. He recalls vivid memories of family gatherings, such as a dinner with King Louis XVIII and a coronation event that left a lasting impression on him as a child. The author narrates anecdotes about his tutors and schooling, as well as the joyous camaraderie of growing up with his siblings. As he intersects his personal life with the broader historical context, we begin to see hints of the political upheavals that would shape his world, including early whispers of revolution and the changing landscape of French society leading up to the July Revolution of 1830. This beginning sets the stage for a memoir that offers both personal and historical insights into a pivotal era in French history. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

François d'Orléans, Prince de Joinville was the third son of Louis Philippe, King of the French, and his wife Maria Amalia of Naples and Sicily. An admiral of the French Navy, François was famous for bringing the remains of Napoleon from Saint Helena to France, as well as a talented artist, with 35 known watercolours. He married Princess Francisca of Brazil, daughter of Emperor Pedro I and sister of Emperor Pedro II. The dowry received by François upon the marriage became the Brazilian city of Joinville.