12 Facts About Marie-Louise Coidavid

Queen Marie Louise Coidavid was the Queen of Haiti from 1811 to 1820 as the spouse of Henri Christophe.

Marie-Louise Coidavid was born into a free black family; her father was the owner of Hotel de la Couronne in Cap-Haitien.

In 1811, Marie-Louise Coidavid was given the title of queen upon the creation of the Kingdom of Haiti.

Marie-Louise Coidavid took her position seriously, and stated that the title "given to her by the nation" gave her responsibilities and duties to perform.

Marie-Louise Coidavid served as the hostess of the ceremonial royal court life performed at the Sans-Souci Palace.

Marie-Louise Coidavid did not involve herself in the affairs of state.

Marie-Louise Coidavid was given the position of Regent should her son succeed her spouse while still being a minor.

Marie-Louise Coidavid was visited by president Jean Pierre Boyer, who offered her his protection; he denied the spurs of gold she gave him, stating that he was the leader of poor people.

Marie-Louise Coidavid was described as calm and resigned, but her daughters, especially Athenaire, were described as vengeful.

Shortly before her death, Marie-Louise Coidavid wrote to Haiti for permission to return.

Marie-Louise Coidavid never did before she died in Italy on 11 March 1851.

Marie-Louise Coidavid is buried in the church of San Donnino.