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The Fascinating Lives of George V's Children: John Van Der Kiste's Insights

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George V's Children

by John Van der Kiste

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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George V, the reigning British monarch from 1910 to 1936, and his consort Queen Mary were the parents of six children. Their lives were filled with both privilege and challenges, and they played significant roles in shaping the history of the British monarchy.

In this article, we will explore the lives of George V's children through the lens of renowned historian John Van Der Kiste. Van Der Kiste is the author of several authoritative works on the British royal family, including "The Children of George V" and "George V: A Study in Kingship".

Edward VIII: The Abdicating King

A Vintage Photograph Of Edward VIII, The Eldest Son Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

Edward VIII was the eldest son of George V and Queen Mary. He became king in 1936, but abdicated less than a year later in order to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson. His abdication caused a constitutional crisis and was a major scandal at the time.

According to John Van Der Kiste, Edward VIII was "a complex and contradictory figure". He was charming and popular, but also headstrong and impulsive. His relationship with Wallis Simpson was doomed from the start, as she was not considered suitable to be queen.

George VI: The Reluctant King

A Portrait Of George VI, The Second Son Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

George VI was the second son of George V and Queen Mary. He became king in 1936 after the abdication of his brother Edward VIII. He was a shy and unassuming man, but he proved to be a capable and popular king during World War II.

Van Der Kiste describes George VI as "a man of great courage and determination". He was not born to be king, but he rose to the occasion and led his country through one of its darkest periods.

Princess Mary, Countess of Harewood

A Vintage Photograph Of Princess Mary, The Only Daughter Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

Princess Mary was the only daughter of George V and Queen Mary. She married Viscount Lascelles in 1922 and became Countess of Harewood. She was a popular and active member of the royal family, and she was known for her work with charities.

According to Van Der Kiste, Princess Mary was "a kind and compassionate woman". She was also a gifted artist and musician. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, and she was loved by her family and friends.

Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester

A Vintage Photograph Of Prince Henry, The Third Son Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

Prince Henry was the third son of George V and Queen Mary. He married Lady Alice Montagu-Douglas-Scott in 1935 and became Duke of Gloucester. He served as Governor-General of Australia from 1945 to 1947.

Van Der Kiste describes Prince Henry as "a quiet and unassuming man". He was a devoted husband and father, and he was popular with the Australian people during his time as Governor-General.

Prince George, Duke of Kent

A Vintage Photograph Of Prince George, The Fourth Son Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

Prince George was the fourth son of George V and Queen Mary. He married Princess Marina of Greece and Denmark in 1934 and became Duke of Kent. He was a popular and active member of the royal family, and he was known for his work with the Royal Air Force.

According to Van Der Kiste, Prince George was "a charming and charismatic man". He was also a gifted pilot and sportsman. He was a devoted husband and father, and he was loved by his family and friends.

Prince John

A Vintage Photograph Of Prince John, The Youngest Son Of George V George V S Children John Van Der Kiste

Prince John was the youngest son of George V and Queen Mary. He was born with epilepsy and learning difficulties, and he spent much of his life in institutions. He died in 1919 at the age of 13.

Van Der Kiste describes Prince John as "a tragic figure". He was a kind and gentle boy, but he was unable to live a normal life due to his disabilities. His death was a great sadness to his family and friends.

The lives of George V's children were filled with both privilege and challenges. They played significant roles in shaping the history of the British monarchy, and they continue to fascinate us today.

John Van Der Kiste's insights into the lives of George V's children provide us with a deeper understanding of these complex and fascinating individuals.

George V's Children

by John Van der Kiste

4.2 out of 5