Charles II had at least twelve illegitimate children that are known to have survived.
Despite being married to Queen Catherine of Braganza, who fell pregnant several times, she was unfortunately unable to bear any children to full term. This meant that although he had many offspring out of wedlock, Charles II never produced a legitimate heir to the throne.
Charles II's Illegitimate Offspring
The historical record confirms a minimum of twelve illegitimate children born to King Charles II from various mistresses. These royal bastards often played significant roles in society and were sometimes granted titles and estates. The phrase "at least" indicates that while twelve individuals are well-documented as his illegitimate offspring, it is plausible there could have been other unacknowledged or unrecorded children given the historical context and the monarch's lifestyle during that period.
The Absence of a Legitimate Heir
The inability of Queen Catherine of Braganza to produce a surviving legitimate child was a significant factor in the political landscape of the time. Her numerous pregnancies consistently failed to result in a living heir, leading to anxieties about the royal succession. This situation ultimately meant that upon Charles II's death, the throne passed to his younger brother, James, Duke of York, who subsequently became King James II. The lack of a direct legitimate heir from Charles II highlighted the prominence and political implications of his numerous illegitimate progeny within the royal court.
Here's a summary of Charles II's known offspring:
| Category | Count | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Illegitimate Children | At least 12 | Born from various mistresses, these children were often acknowledged and granted titles. |
| Legitimate Children | 0 | Queen Catherine of Braganza had several pregnancies, but none resulted in a child born to full term. |
