Born: 8 April 1818 · Died: 29 January 1906 · Age at death: 87
How old was Christian IX of Denmark when he died?
Christian IX of Denmark died aged 87. He was born on 8 April 1818 and died on 29 January 1906.
King of Denmark known as the Father-in-law of Europe
Did you know?His children married into various European royal houses, making him a common ancestor to current monarchs including King Charles III.
Quick facts
Date of birth8 April 1818
Date of death29 January 1906
Age at death87
NationalityDanish
BirthplaceSchleswig, Germany
Occupationmonarch, military officer
Editor's Take:
Christian IX came to the throne almost by accident, chosen by the great powers to settle a succession crisis. His reign began with disaster, as Prussia and Austria seized Schleswig and Holstein within months. Many Danes blamed him at first. Yet his long rule saw the country recover and modernise. His family life made him famous across Europe. His daughter Alexandra became Britain's queen, another daughter became empress of Russia and a son became King of Greece. Late in life he accepted the principle that governments must answer to parliament.
Key Milestones
1852: Named heir to the Danish throne
1863: Becomes King of Denmark
1864: Denmark is defeated in the Second Schleswig War
1901: Accepts parliamentary rule in Denmark
Christian IX (8 April 1818 – 29 January 1906) was King of Denmark from 15 November 1863 until his death in 1906. From 1863 to 1864, he was concurrently Duke of Schleswig, Holstein and Lauenburg.
