Duchess Anna of Mecklenburg-Schwerin was born on December 7, 1870, in Schwerin, Germany. She was a member of the House of Mecklenburg and the daughter of Duke Friedrich Franz II. Anna became known for her charitable work and involvement in social causes, particularly in education and healthcare. In 1896, she married Duke Ernst August of Cumberland, which connected her to the British royal family. The couple had three children and lived in Germany and England. Anna's life was marked by her dedication to public service and her efforts to support various community initiatives throughout her lifetime.