George V's reign was significantly impacted by World War I, which saw the British Empire at war with the Central Powers.
Declaration of War
4 August 1914
George V wrote in his diary, 'I held a council at 10:45 to declare war with Germany. It is a terrible catastrophe but it is not our fault.'
War Effort
1914-1918
George V and his government played a crucial role in managing the war effort, with the king visiting troops on multiple occasions to boost morale.
Renaming of the Royal House
1917
George V changed the name of the British royal house from the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha to the House of Windsor due to anti-German public sentiment.
