Profile of the Day: Diana, Princess of Wales

Posted July 1, 2020 by Amanda | No Comment

Today we remember Princess Diana on what would have been her 59th birthday.

Image: Diana, Princess of Wales / Wikimedia Commons

She was born Diana Frances Spencer in Sandringham, England to John Spencer, Viscount Althorp, and Frances Burk Rouche, Viscountess Althorp. Her parents would divorce when she was eight years old. She became known as Lady Diana when her father inherited the title of Earl Spencer in 1975.

In 1981, she married Prince Charles in a lavish ceremony at St. Paul’s Cathedral. Over 750 million people all around the world watched the royal nuptials. Together, the couple had two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. They would divorce in 1996.

Fondly known as “The People’s Princess,” Diana is remembered for her compassion and charitable efforts around the world. Her work and dedication was admired by the public and even today, continues to inspire people of all generations. Her sudden death at the age of 36 from injuries sustained in a car crash in Paris shocked the world. Her funeral drew an estimated 3 million mourners in London, while 2.5 billion viewers worldwide watched the television coverage from home.

In honor of his mother’s memory, Prince William bestowed his daughter with the name Charlotte Elizabeth Diana.

Explore Princess Diana’s family tree on Geni and share your connection!