Johann Joseph von Semlin (born Ali Mirza Khan; 1736–1824) was the reputed son of Nader Shah. After Nader Shah's murder, a loyal follower brought Ali Mirza Khan to Maria Theresa in Vienna, Austria. Maria Theresa named him "Johann Joseph Freiherr von Semlin". In 1755, when von Semlin was 10 years old, he was sent to Graz to learn the German language and European culture. In 1756, he converted to Christianity. َAfter two years he returned to Vienna.

Von Semlin was born in 1736 in Isfahan.

In 1746 at age 10, he moved to Graz and learnt the German language.

After completing his education at a Viennese military school, von Semlin joined the Austrian army. After a few years, he became a commander. Von Semlin was a member of the Russian empire and took part in the Seven Years' War as a Major. At the end of the war, he received a Medal of Honor.

He was captured in the war in Prussia. He was known as the Prince of Persia among his troops. Frederick the Great invited him to his palace and returned him to Maria Theresa.

With two injuries received during his military service, Von Semlin retired in 1792. Semlin's pension was 810 gulden per month.

After his military retirement, von Semlin drew the attention of the French government. An ambassador of Napoleon requested von Semlin to attempt to take the throne of Iran and offered military support. Von Semlin rejected the offer, saying "Neither me nor my children think about Peacock Throne. Even if I have any rights to become king of Iran, I concede it to Francis II, Holy Roman Emperor, who supported me to this age".

Von Semlin died at the age of 90 in Mödling, near Vienna, and was buried in his house's garden. According to his will and testament, 5 Gulden was paid to each poor person who attended his funeral. He signed bills by his Persian name, Ali Mirza Khan, up to his death.

...
Wikipedia