Edward VIII's short reign was marked by controversy and ultimately led to his abdication. Here are key events during this period.
Accession to the Throne
20 January 1936
Edward became King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Empire, and Emperor of India, following his father's death.
Constitutional Crisis
1936
Edward's proposal to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, caused a constitutional crisis, as the prime ministers of the UK and the Dominions opposed the marriage.
Abdication
11 December 1936
Edward abdicated the throne, choosing to marry Wallis Simpson over remaining king. He was succeeded by his younger brother, George VI.
