Marie-José of Belgium was born on August 4, 1906, in Brussels, Belgium. She was the daughter of King Albert I of Belgium and Queen Elisabeth of Belgium. In 1930, she married Umberto II, the last king of Italy, becoming the Queen of Italy. During World War II, Marie-José was active in humanitarian efforts, helping refugees and supporting the resistance. After the war, her husband was exiled, and they lived in Switzerland. Marie-José passed away on January 27, 2001, in Switzerland, leaving a legacy of compassion and service.