Bonaparte: Jérôme Bonaparte

Napoleon's youngest brother, Jérôme, 1784–1860, served in the navy and was sent to the West Indies. On a visit to the United States he met Elizabeth Patterson, whom he married in 1803, although, as a minor, he lacked the necessary consent. Napoleon refused to recognize the marriage and had little difficulty in changing the mind of the flighty Jérôme, for whom he made (1807) a new match with Catherine of Württemberg.

Jérôme became king of Westphalia (1807–13), fought in the Russian campaign, and led a division at Waterloo. He was more remarkable for his extravagant irresponsibility than for administrative or military skill. Leaving France after Waterloo, he returned in 1847 and later received honors at the court of his nephew, Napoleon III. There he was known as Prince Jérôme.

Sections in this article:

• Introduction
• Later Generations
• Jérôme Bonaparte
• Caroline Bonaparte
• Pauline Bonaparte
• Louis Bonaparte
• Elisa Bonaparte
• Lucien Bonaparte
• Joseph Bonaparte
• Parentage
• Bibliography

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