Maria José of Belgium was born on August 4, 1872, and was the daughter of King Leopold II of Belgium and Marie Henriette of Austria. She became the Queen of Italy by marrying King Victor Emmanuel III in 1896. Maria José was known for her intelligence and strong character, often engaging in social and charitable activities. During her time as queen, Maria José faced significant challenges, especially during World War I. After the war, she and her husband went into exile due to the political changes in Italy. She passed away on January 27, 1951, in Switzerland, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and resilience.