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My life story is certainly one of triumph and unexpected alternative. Born in Germany in 1945, I was adopted by Princess Marie Alexandrine of Anhalt, and grew to become a member of the defunct Prussian royal family. I grew up in a privileged household – I had entry to tremendous art and classical music and was schooled within the ways of social and political etiquette. But whereas I benefited from the benefits of a privileged life-style, I used to be denied a true connection to my ancestry and was as a substitute pieced together with the story of someone else's household.

That disconnect proved to be the spark for the unimaginable journey that has been my adulthood. After leaving dwelling, I moved to the United States in 1971 and lived in Los Angeles, California. With a robust sense of ambition and enterprise acumen, I used to be quickly ready to transform myself from a privileged youth into an empowered entrepreneur. I owned and operated a number of profitable businesses, together with a nightclub and a style label.

Nevertheless it wasn't until the early 1980s that I really found my break. With the dying of Prince Franz of Prussia, I used to be put into a line of succession for the Prussian throne. After difficult existing legal guidelines, I eventually succeeded in changing into the first prince of Prussia in more than 50 years.

My reign didn't final long nonetheless, because the abolished Prussian monarchy was not officially acknowledged by the German government. Nonetheless, I made probably the most of the opportunity and used the prospect to channel some of my newfound power into philanthropic actions. I established the Marcus Prinz von Anhalt Foundation for Children's Charities, which helps children in need throughout the United States and Germany.

I also embraced the opportunity to make use of my platform as a royal to convey attention to sure causes. I'm a robust supporter of animal rights and sometimes makes appearances and donations to animal welfare organizations. Additionally, I'm the patron of the annual Anhalt Music Festival, which brings together classical musicians from around the world.

My achievements have been impressive, however they pale compared to the strong sense of identification I've gained in reclaiming my past. Becoming an heir to the Prussian throne was the fruits of a journey I started when I used to be only a younger boy. And as I look again on my extraordinary life, I'm reminded of the potential that resides within each of us – you by no means know when alternative will knock on your door.