William IV

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Prince William and Prince Edward 1778

William IV by Sir Martin Archer Shee

Lubber's-hole, -alias- the crack'd Jordan (BM 1851,0901.552)

TheDisconsolateSailor

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WilliamIVWhileLordHighAdmiral

WilliamIVbyLonsdale

William IV (William Henry; 21 August 1765 – 20 June 1837) was King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and King of Hanover from 26 June 1830 until his death in 1837. The third son of George III and younger brother and successor to George IV, he was the last king and penultimate monarch of Britain's House of Hanover.

Early Life

William was born at Buckingham Palace, the third son of George III and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. Unlike his older brothers, William did not spend his adolescence receiving a formal education but instead joined the Royal Navy at the age of 13. His naval career was distinguished, and he served in New York during the American Revolutionary War. Eventually, he reached the rank of Admiral of the Fleet.

Naval Career

Throughout his naval career, William was known for his genuine concern for the welfare of his sailors, earning him the nickname "Sailor King" in later years. His experiences in the navy influenced his character, making him more approachable and less formal than his predecessors.

Ascension to the Throne

William ascended to the throne at the age of 64, following the death of his brother, George IV. His reign was marked by several significant events in British history, including the Reform Act 1832, which reformed the British electoral system, and the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire with the Slavery Abolition Act 1833.

Reign and Legacy

William IV's reign is often seen as a bridge between the "old" monarchy and the modern, constitutional monarchy established by his niece, Queen Victoria. His efforts to work with the government rather than against it set precedents for the future role of the monarch in the British political system.

Despite his contributions, William's reign was also marked by challenges, including opposition to the Reform Act and tensions in Hanover, which he ruled in personal union with the United Kingdom.

William IV died in 1837, leaving no legitimate heirs, as his children with Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen had predeceased him. He was succeeded by his niece, Victoria, marking the end of the Hanoverian line on the British throne and the beginning of the Victorian era.

Personal Life

William's marriage to Adelaide of Saxe-Meiningen was marked by mutual respect and affection. The couple had several children, but none survived to adulthood. William also had a number of illegitimate children with his long-term mistress, Dorothea Jordan, a celebrated actress.

Death and Succession

William IV died of heart failure in 1837 at Windsor Castle. His death marked the end of the Hanoverian line of British monarchs, as the crown passed to his niece, Victoria, whose father was Edward, Duke of Kent, the fourth son of George III.

Titles, Styles, Honours, and Arms

Throughout his life, William held various titles and honours, reflecting his position in the royal family and his naval career. His styles evolved from His Royal Highness Prince William Henry to His Majesty The King. As king, his coat of arms represented both his status as monarch of the United Kingdom and as King of Hanover.

Legacy

William IV is remembered for his pragmatic approach to governance and his efforts to modernize the British monarchy. His reign, though short, was a critical period that paved the way for the more ceremonial role of the monarch seen in the United Kingdom today.