Background
Prince Ernst August was born at Dresden, Kingdom of Saxony, the second child and first son of Prince Julius Ernst of Lippe (1873–1952. Son of Ernst, Count of Lippe-Biesterfeld and Countess Caroline of Wartensleben) and his wife, Duchess Marie of Mecklenburg-Strelitz (1878–1948. Daughter of Adolphus Frederick V, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz and his wife Princess Elisabeth of Anhalt).
Through his father he was first cousin of Prince Bernhard consort to Queen Juliana of the Netherlands and was a guest at their 1937 wedding.
Career
Through his mother he was descendant of George III of the United Kingdom. He had two half siblings. His mother had been married previously to Count George Jametel but divorced in 1908.
On 22 March 1953, he renounced his position in favour of his older half brother Prince Leopold.
This move proved controversial within the house and several princes started legal proceedings. Later in that year the Hereditary Prince called a family council where it was agreed by the princes in attendance that the oldest prince living in Germany would be head of the house.
So the position went to Prince Simon Casimir (1900–1980). Prince Ernst August changed his mind, believing all princes of the house, not just those living in Germany, should be considered.
He ultimately assumed the headship of the house.
Prince Armin, who has said he did not think his decision in 1953 was irrevocable, also claims to be head of the house. 1 April 1917 – 15 June 1990: His Serene Highness Prince Ernst August of Lippe.
