Profile of the Day: Edward VIII, Duke of Windsor

Posted December 11, 2013 by Amanda | No Comment

Edward VIII

This day in 1936, Edward VIII abdicated the English throne in order to marry Wallis Simpson. His relationship with the twice-divorced socialite was controversial from the start and the announcement of the couple’s engagement caused a constitutional crisis only months into his reign. The British government, the Church of England and the public widely condemned his desire to marry Simpson. As the King and the titular head of the Church of England, Edward VIII was expected to support the Church’s teachings. He was faced with three choices: give up the idea of marriage, marry Simpson and cause a constitutional crisis or abdicate. He chose to abdicate. The next day, his younger brother was proclaimed King George VI.

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Post written by Amanda

Amanda is the Marketing Communications Manager at Geni. If you need any assistance, she will be happy to help!

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