Edward Oxford

Edward Oxford (5 April 1822 – 23 April 1900) was the first of seven people who attempted to assassinate Queen Victoria. On 10 June 1840, Oxford fired two shots at Queen Victoria and Prince Albert while they were riding in a carriage, but both shots missed. This event marked a significant moment in the early reign of Queen Victoria, highlighting the threats faced by the monarchy and leading to increased security measures for the royal family.

Early Life

Edward Oxford was born in Birmingham, England, to Hannah Marklew and George Oxford. His family moved to London when he was young, and he was raised in a working-class environment. Oxford had a troubled youth and struggled to hold down a job, working in various positions before declaring himself a bartender at the time of the assassination attempt.

Assassination Attempt

On the evening of 10 June 1840, Oxford took his position on Constitution Hill, near Buckingham Palace. As Queen Victoria and Prince Albert passed by in their carriage, Oxford fired two shots in quick succession from a pair of pistols. Neither of the shots hit the royal couple, and Oxford was immediately seized by bystanders and arrested.

Following his arrest, Oxford was charged with high treason. During his trial, questions arose regarding his mental health. Experts testified that Oxford was suffering from a form of psychosis, leading to the conclusion that he was not guilty by reason of insanity. This verdict resulted in Oxford being detained at Bethlem Royal Hospital, a psychiatric facility known colloquially as Bedlam.

Later Life

Edward Oxford spent 24 years in Bethlem Royal Hospital before being transferred to Broadmoor Hospital, another psychiatric institution. In 1867, after showing signs of improvement, Oxford was released on the condition that he leave Britain. He emigrated to Australia, where he adopted the name John Freeman and lived the remainder of his life in relative obscurity. In Australia, Oxford led a productive life, working various jobs and eventually becoming a respected member of his community. He died in Melbourne on 23 April 1900.

Legacy

The assassination attempt by Edward Oxford is notable for being the first of several attempts on Queen Victoria's life. It highlighted the vulnerability of the monarchy and led to increased security measures for protecting the royal family. Additionally, Oxford's case had a lasting impact on the understanding and treatment of mental health conditions, particularly in the legal context of criminal responsibility.

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