Marie Henriette of Belgium was born on August 23, 1844, in Brussels. She was the daughter of King Leopold I of Belgium and Louise of Orléans. In 1866, she married Archduke Maximilian of Austria, who later became Emperor of Mexico. Their marriage was politically motivated, aimed at strengthening ties between Belgium and Austria. Marie Henriette became known for her charitable work and support of the arts. After her husband's execution in 1867, she faced personal struggles and health issues. She returned to Belgium, where she lived until her death on January 19, 1902, in Spa, Belgium.