She decreed that Edzard should rule East Frisia jointly with his younger brothers Johan and Christopher.

When Christopher died early, Edzard ran into a strong and almost hateful rivalry with his brother Johan II.

After Johan died in 1591, Edzard became the sole ruler, but his authority had been severely hit by the ongoing conflict.

Under pressure from the Dutch States General, Edzard signed on 5 July 1595 the Treaty of Delfzijl, which gave Emden a large degree of independence.

Through this marriage, the Swedish royal family sought to secure their influence on the North Sea coast.