Wilhelmina of the Netherlands

Wilhelmina became queen of the Netherlands at age 10 after her father William III's death. Her mother Emma served as regent until 1898, when Wilhelmina was inaugurated at age 18.

Wilhelmina maintained Dutch neutrality throughout World War I, despite pressure from both Allied and Central Powers. The Netherlands remained neutral but faced economic hardship and refugee crises.

Germany invaded the Netherlands on May 10, 1940. Wilhelmina fled to London with her government, establishing a government-in-exile. The Dutch army surrendered after five days, but the queen continued the fight from abroad.

From London, Wilhelmina led the Dutch government-in-exile, broadcasting radio messages to occupied Netherlands. She became a symbol of resistance, maintaining Dutch sovereignty and coordinating with Allied forces.

Wilhelmina returned to the Netherlands in May 1945 after liberation. She oversaw post-war reconstruction, including the restoration of infrastructure, the economy, and the political system.

Wilhelmina abdicated the throne on September 4, 1948, after 58 years of reign. She cited health reasons and a desire to pass responsibility to her daughter Juliana, marking the first Dutch abdication in centuries.