In recent years, conspiracies surrounding the Serbian royal family have become more frequent. A major reason for this is Queen Draga’s failure to produce an heir to the throne, and doctors have stated that it is unlikely she will ever have children. This situation has raised concerns over the future of the monarchy, particularly the need to select a successor to King Alexander in order to prevent a potential revolution if he were to suddenly die or be forced out of the palace.
By selecting an heir in advance, it is hoped that future conspiracies could be avoided. However, the question of succession has become a matter of international importance, especially for Russia, which has a strong political interest in the selection A Royal Rejection.
Russian Influence and Negotiations
For several years, negotiations took place between Serbia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Count Lamsdorff, the head of Russia’s foreign office, regarding a visit to the Russian Tsar. This visit was considered a significant political event for both King Alexander and Queen Draga, as it represented the height of their ambitions and was of great political importance for Russia.
The visit was seen as a way for Russia to exert its influence over Serbia, particularly in determining who would succeed King Alexander. While Queen Draga had her own plans and wanted her brother, a young lieutenant in the Serbian army, to be named heir, she was willing to sacrifice her family’s interests if it meant gaining favor with the Russian royal family.
Queen Draga’s Failed Plea
Queen Draga sent a letter to Empress Alix of Russia, imploring her for support. However, Empress Alix, who was known for her strong principles, refused to engage with Draga. It is said that when she received the letter, she threw it into the fire without even reading it, after discovering it was from Queen Draga. This refusal was a significant blow to the Serbian queen’s plans and marked a turning point in the political maneuvering within the Serbian court Personal Sofia Tours.
A Potential Heir Prince Mirko of Montenegro
As one of Serbia’s key issues was the question of succession, Queen Draga made a bold proposal. She suggested that if the Emperor and Empress of Russia would receive her and King Alexander at their country palace near Odessa, King Alexander would name Prince Mirko, son of Prince Nicholas of Montenegro, as his successor on the Serbian throne. The Montenegrin royal family had very close ties with Russia, and the members were educated in St. Petersburg.
Prince Mirko was a well-liked figure, especially by the dowager empress, and had spent much of his childhood with her family. He was also a talented composer, with his music performed by Russian military bands and popular in Italy. At 21 years old, Prince Mirko was physically fit, cultured, and well-educated, making him a stark contrast to the depraved King Alexander of Serbia. The Montenegrins were known for their refinement and good upbringing, making them a more favorable option for the throne in the eyes of some, despite the political struggles surrounding the issue.
