Edward VII

Edward VII (1841 – 1910)

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H.R.H. Prince of Wales and Suite at Point View, Niagara

William Powell Frith - The Marriage of the Prince of Wales, 10 March 1863

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London Bridge on the Night of the Marriage of the Prince and Princess of Wales

Edward, Prince of Wales, with elephant, Terai cph.3b08927

Edward VII (Albert Edward; 9 November 1841 – 6 May 1910) was King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and the British Dominions, and Emperor of India, from 22 January 1901 until his death in 1910. He was the eldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.

Early Life

Edward was born at Buckingham Palace in London as the second child and eldest son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. He was named Albert Edward after his father and maternal grandfather, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn. As the heir apparent to the British throne, he was automatically Duke of Cornwall and Duke of Rothesay, and was created Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester a month after his birth.

Education

Edward was educated privately and at various institutions, including Christ Church, Oxford and Trinity College, Cambridge. Despite his parents' efforts to prepare him for the throne, he was not a diligent student and preferred social activities.

Marriage and Family

On 10 March 1863, Edward married Alexandra of Denmark at St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. The couple had six children: Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale, George V, Louise, Princess Royal and Duchess of Fife, Princess Victoria, Maud of Wales, and Prince Alexander John of Wales.

Reign

Edward VII ascended the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Victoria, in 1901. His reign, known as the Edwardian era, was marked by significant changes in British society and the expansion of the British Empire. Edward played a crucial role in modernizing the British Home Fleet and reorganizing the British Army after the Second Boer War. He was also known for his diplomatic efforts, particularly in fostering good relations between Britain and other European countries, earning him the nickname "Peacemaker."

Death and Legacy

Edward VII died on 6 May 1910 at Buckingham Palace and was succeeded by his son, George V. His reign saw the beginning of a new era in British history, characterized by significant social and political changes. Edward's legacy includes his contributions to the modernization of the British military and his efforts to maintain peace in Europe.

Related Pages

• Queen Victoria
• Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
• Alexandra of Denmark
• George V
• Edwardian era
• Second Boer War
• Buckingham Palace