Prince Erik, Duke of Västmanland

Prince Erik, Duke of Västmanland (Erik Gustav Ludvig Albert; 20 April 1889 – 20 September 1918) was a Swedish and Norwegian prince. He was the third and youngest son of King Gustav V of Sweden and Victoria of Baden and was known to be disabled.

Life

Prince Erik had epilepsy and mild intellectual disability. His exact condition has not been published, but he may have had an injury at birth or been affected by his mother's strong pre-natal medication for pneumonia. He had pangs of severe anxiety, and Victoria called him "my much loved child of grief". He was described as handsome and physically healthy. His mental disability was not noticeable in brief conversation, but would become apparent if he was engaged at length. Every two weeks he was allowed a trip to the capital, during which he sometimes could be seen visiting the opera; these were the only times he was seen in public except for official photographs.

Death In 1917, he complained about having to live in such isolation, Knight and Commander of the Seraphim, 20 April 1889 Knight of the Order of Charles XIII, 20 April 1889 Commander Grand Cross of the Sword, 20 April 1889 Commander Grand Cross of the Polar Star, 20 April 1889 Grand Cross of St. Olav, with Collar, 20 April 1889 Knight of the Norwegian Lion, 21 January 1904 Knight of the Elephant, 20 November 1912 Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour

Eric 1889