George V

Overview

George V, born George Frederick Ernest Albert, was the King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, and Emperor of India, from 6 May 1910 until his death in 1936. His reign was marked by significant events including World War I, the rise of socialism and fascism, and the transformation of the British Empire into the Commonwealth of Nations.

Main Milestones

Birth of George V

3 June 1865

George V was born as the second son of Prince Albert Edward, later King Edward VII, and Princess Alexandra of Denmark. He was third in the line of succession to the British throne behind his father and his elder brother, Prince Albert Victor.

Service in the Royal Navy

1877-1892

George served in the Royal Navy until the unexpected death of his elder brother, Prince Albert Victor, in January 1892, which put him directly in line for the throne.

Marriage to Princess Victoria Mary of Teck

1893

George married his brother's former fiancée, Princess Victoria Mary of Teck, and they had six children. This marriage was significant as it secured the future of the royal lineage.

Accession to the Throne

6 May 1910

Upon the death of his father, King Edward VII, George V became the King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions, and Emperor of India. He was crowned on June 22, 1911.

Coronation and Imperial Visit to India

1911

George V and Queen Mary were coronated at Westminster Abbey in June 1911. Later that year, they visited India, where a spectacular coronation ceremony (durbar) was held at Delhi, marking the transfer of the capital of India from Calcutta to Delhi.

World War I

1914-1918

George V's reign saw the British Empire's involvement in World War I. He played a crucial role in rallying the nation and maintaining morale during the war years.

Renaming of the Royal House

1917

In response to anti-German public sentiment, George V changed the name of the British royal house from Saxe-Coburg and Gotha to Windsor, marking a significant shift in the identity of the British monarchy.

Appointment of the First Labour Ministry

1924

George V appointed the first Labour ministry, reflecting the changing political landscape of Britain and his willingness to adapt to democratic shifts.

Statute of Westminster

1931

The Statute of Westminster recognized the Dominions of the British Empire as separate, independent states within the British Commonwealth of Nations, marking a significant step towards the decolonization of the Empire.

Death of George V

20 January 1936

George V died after suffering from smoking-related health problems. He was succeeded by his eldest son, Edward VIII, who later abdicated in favor of his younger brother, Albert, who took the regnal name George VI.