Christian VII of Denmark vs Mwanawina III

Christian VII, suffering from severe mental illness, appointed his personal physician Johann Friedrich Struensee as a minister. Struensee quickly gained influence over the king and effectively became the de facto ruler of Denmark-Norway, initiating a series of radical Enlightenment reforms.

Under Struensee's direction, a wave of reforms was enacted, including freedom of the press, abolition of torture, reform of the justice system, and reduction of noble privileges. These reforms were implemented rapidly and without consultation, alienating the nobility and conservative elements.

A conspiracy led by the queen dowager Juliana Maria and noble opponents resulted in Struensee's arrest. He was convicted of usurping royal authority and having an affair with Queen Caroline Matilda. Struensee was executed, and his reforms were largely reversed, restoring conservative rule.

After Struensee's fall, Christian VII remained king but was completely incapacitated by mental illness. A regency government was established, first under Juliana Maria and later under Crown Prince Frederick (future Frederick VI). Christian VII had no real power for the rest of his reign.

Mwanawina III signed an agreement with the British colonial administration that formally incorporated Barotseland into the protectorate of Northern Rhodesia. This ended Barotseland's special protected status and subjected it to direct colonial governance.

Mwanawina III dissolved the traditional Barotseland Council under pressure from British authorities, centralizing power in the colonial administration. This move reduced Lozi political autonomy and weakened traditional governance structures.