George II of Great Britain

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George II
Title	King of Great Britain and Ireland
Reign	11 June 1727 – 25 October 1760
Coronation	11 October 1727
Predecessor	George I
Successor	George III
Spouse	Caroline of Ansbach
Issue
Full Name
House	House of Hanover
Father	George I
Mother	Sophia Dorothea of Celle
Birth Date	30 October 1683
Birth Place	Herrenhausen Palace, Hanover
Death Date	25 October 1760
Death Place	Kensington Palace, London
Burial Date
Burial Place	Westminster Abbey

George II (George Augustus; 30 October 1683 – 25 October 1760) was King of Great Britain and Ireland, Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg (Hanover), and a prince-elector of the Holy Roman Empire from 11 June 1727 until his death in 1760. He was the last British monarch born outside Great Britain and the last to lead an army in battle.

Early Life

George Augustus was born in Herrenhausen Palace, Hanover, on 30 October 1683. He was the son of George Louis, Elector of Hanover (later George I of Great Britain) and Sophia Dorothea of Celle. His early life was spent in Hanover, where he received a comprehensive education in languages, military tactics, and governance.

Ascension to the Throne

George became heir apparent to the British throne when his father ascended as George I in 1714. Upon his father's death in 1727, George II became king. His reign was marked by a continuation of the policies of his father, including the reliance on the Whig Party and the maintenance of the Hanoverian Succession.

Reign

George II's reign saw significant developments in British politics, military, and culture. He was involved in the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War, which expanded British influence globally. Domestically, his reign was characterized by the strengthening of the Parliament and the role of the Prime Minister, notably Robert Walpole, who is often regarded as the first de facto Prime Minister.

Military Engagements

George II was the last British monarch to lead his troops into battle, doing so at the Battle of Dettingen in 1743 during the War of the Austrian Succession. His military leadership was symbolic of his commitment to the Hanoverian interests and the balance of power in Europe.

Cultural Contributions

The Georgian era, named after George II and his son, George III, was a period of significant cultural development. The arts flourished, with figures such as George Frideric Handel gaining prominence. Handel's "Music for the Royal Fireworks" was composed for George II's celebrations.

Personal Life

George II married Caroline of Ansbach in 1705. Their marriage was a successful partnership, and Caroline was a significant influence on George, particularly in cultural and intellectual matters. They had several children, including Frederick, Prince of Wales, who predeceased his father, and George III, who succeeded him.

Death and Legacy

George II died on 25 October 1760 at Kensington Palace. He was buried at Westminster Abbey. His reign is often seen as a period of transition, setting the stage for the British Empire's expansion under his grandson, George III. His legacy includes the strengthening of the constitutional monarchy and the establishment of Britain as a global power.

Also see

• George I of Great Britain
• George III of Great Britain
• House of Hanover
• War of the Austrian Succession
• Seven Years' War
• Robert Walpole