Last night, I watched another program on the Biography Channel about HSH Princess Grace. I was a huge fan of Grace, and to this day, think that she was the most lovely of all the commoner princesses, ever. The program, in its claims was a real eye-opener to me, however.
First, it said that at the end of WW2, Monaco was virtually bankrupt. Prince Rainier did a deal with Ari Onassis and that the two of them decided that the way to riches and to restore Monaco's fortunes was to woo America and introduce very lax money laws. The prince was adamant in what he wanted, hence his proposal to Grace who was in a long-term relationship with fashion-designer Oleg Cassini. When Grace married, her movie studio, MGM, provided all of the money and spectacle, and even designed, made and paid for Grace's exquisite gown! Grace's personal friends, while interviewed, corroborated this, as well as attesting to how very unhappy she was, for a long, long time. Of course, Prince Albert's arrival gave her thoughts a more positive direction.
The program continued to describe how Grace's presence brought about a huge trade in international visitors, particularly from America, which brought rewards for Onassis' investments and business acitivites which he promoted. The famous English writer, Somerset Maugham, wrote that Monaco was 'a very sunny place for very shady people'. The suggestion, thoughout, was that Monaco transformed from being almost impoverished to a glittering jewel, made fabulously wealthy by questionable practices!
The program then continued to make the point that HSH Grace transformed Monaco into what it is today - i.e. she put it 'on the map' and made it fashionable, single-handedly.
I wonder how much, those who know more about Monaco than I, think that this is true. I do know that it so that Monaco was a most insignificant part of the world before Grace married and the big money rolled in; I remember Prince Albert's saying, more or less, that he wanted to 'clean up' Monaco when he became the ruler; and I understand how much value and faith is being placed on Grace's beautiful Casarighi grandchildren to ensure the future and integrity of Monaco. However, I'd like confirmation from those who know more about the principality that the program was right, i.e. that modern-day Monaco is due to HSH Grace alone, and prince Rainier's courting of 'funny money'.
iceflower that pic is magnificent. what a gorgeous outfit that's the first time i have seen that photo and it's beautiful. well we all think Pss Grace is a true beauty. 
