Struensee

Struensee, JOHANN FRIEDRICH, COUNT (1737-72), Danish statesman, was born at Halle, where his father was pastor. In 1768 he was appointed personal physician to the weak-minded Christian VII. of Denmark, his ascendency over whom became completee, He subsequently gained the favour of the young queen, Caroline Matilda, sister of George III. of England, and with her aid proceeded to reorganise the institutions and administration of the country. The undue haste with which he pressed on his reforms excited the alarm of all classes, and the queen-dowager succeeded in persuading the king that his life was in danger. The queen and Struensee confessed that they had formed a guilty connection, and the latter was put to death. Caroline was carried by an English fleet to Zelle, where she died.