Introduction to the Swedish Throne Succession

In 1810, when Jean-Baptiste Jules Bernadotte, a French Marshal, was offered the regency of Sweden and would later become King Charles XIV John (Karl Johan), Napoleon Bonaparte briefly considered an alternative candidate. However, this candidate faced significant opposition and obstacles, leading to a fascinating historical dilemma.

The Potential Choice: Eugène de Beauharnais

Napoleon briefly entertained the idea of offering the Swedish throne to his adopted son, Eugène de Beauharnais. Eugène was the son of Empress Joséphine and had served Napoleon well, including a tenure as vice-roy in the kingdom of Northern Italy. However, the complexities surrounding Eugène made him an unideal candidate.

Napoleon's Plans and Obstacles

Napoleon had originally nominated Eugène as his heir for the Italian throne. After divorcing Joséphine, Napoleon no longer wished to proceed with this plan. Eugène, however, remained popular in France due to his mother's influence and his loyal service to Napoleon. Removing him without justification would have been politically disadvantageous.

The Swedish Response and Challenges

The Swedish delegation found the suggestion puzzling and offered, “Who is that?” Eugène, who had not participated in recent war campaigns, was seen as someone who hadn't done much for the Swedish people. Additionally, Eugène's wife, a Bavarian princess, and her stepmother's connection to the deposed Swedish queen Frederika von Baden complicated the political landscape. If Eugène had accepted, it might have brought him into conflict with his royal Bavarian relatives.

Eugène's Decisive Decline

Eugène's response was clear and heartfelt. First, he emphasized that he had yet to do anything for the Swedish people, making them reluctant to accept him. Second, Eugène proudly stated his adherence to his Catholic faith and his duty as a devoted husband, refusing to convert to Protestantism, which was the state religion of Sweden.

The irony of the situation is even more amusing when considering the accounts of Marie Louise, Napoleon's new Empress from the House of Habsburg. Upon hearing about the potential offer, Marie Louise was deeply shocked. She exclaimed, “What? That wretch would sell his religion for a crown! Nobody in my family would ever do that!” Napoleon hastily reassured her that his family would never consider such a thing, undoubtedly relieved when Duroc relayed the same message back from Eugène.

The Final Outcome

While Eugène ultimately declined the offer in 1810, fate would indeed lead him to Sweden 13 years later through his daughter, who married Oscar Bernadotte. Although Eugène never became king, his historical scenarios layout and the narrative of those who nearly filled his shoes remain a fascinating part of Swedish and European royal history.

The story of Eugène de Beauharnais not only illustrates the intricacies of European succession but also highlights the personal and political factors that can influence such important decisions in history.