Electorate of Brunswick-Lüneburg facts for kids

The Electorate of Hanover was an important state in Germany. It was part of the Holy Roman Empire. Its rulers were called Electors. They had a special job: they helped choose the Holy Roman Emperor.

The Electorate of Hanover became very famous. This was because its rulers also became kings of Great Britain. This connection lasted for over a century.

What Was the Electorate of Hanover?

The Electorate of Hanover was a territory in what is now Germany. Its official name was the Electorate of Brunswick-Lüneburg. It was often just called Hanover. This state was led by a ruler known as the Duke of Hanover.

How Did Hanover Become an Electorate?

In 1692, the Duke of Hanover received a special title. He was made an Elector of the Holy Roman Emperor. This meant he gained a powerful vote. He could help choose the next Holy Roman Emperor. After this, the Dukes of Hanover were usually called Electors of Hanover.

Hanover's Royal Link to Great Britain

A very important event happened in 1714. Queen Anne of Great Britain had no children. She needed a Protestant heir to take her place. Sophia-Dorothea, a German princess, was chosen. She was related to the British royal family.

When Queen Anne died in 1714, Sophia-Dorothea's son became king. He was the Elector of Hanover at the time. He traveled to Britain and became King George I of Great Britain. This meant the ruler of Hanover was also the King of Great Britain.

This connection lasted for a long time. Hanover and Great Britain shared the same ruler. This continued until 1837. At that time, Queen Victoria became queen of Great Britain. But women could not rule Hanover. So, the two countries separated.

Images for kids

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  This map shows the Electorate of Hanover (in blue) around 1720. It also shows the Principality of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel (in green). Over time, the Electorate grew bigger.

See also

In Spanish: Electorado de Brunswick-Luneburgo para niños