The English throne has been the seat of monarchs dating back to the eighth century. The kings and queens who ruled had great power until the late 1700s when the position became ceremonial and power passed to Parliament. In 1930, George V of the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha family sat on the English throne.
The King's Younger Years
George was born to Edward, Prince of Wales and Alexandra, Princess of Wales on June 3, 1865. His grandmother was Queen Victoria. He joined the Royal Navy after completing his studies, attending the Royal Naval College where he was promoted to lieutenant. He was given his own command of a ship in 1891, the same year he became engaged to Princess Mary of Teck. After his elder brother died the following year, George became first in line to the throne behind his father, now King Edward VII.
From Prince of Wales to King of England
George was made Prince of Wales -- a tradition for heirs to the throne -- in 1901. When his father died in 1910, King George V ascended to the throne with his wife, Queen Mary. He was well suited to the position due to the thorough training he'd received. He was also a family man, which made him popular with the British people. In 1930, George V had been king for 20 years, and he would remain on the throne for several more. He died on January 20, 1936. His granddaughter, Elizabeth II, was destined to be one of the longest sitting monarchs in British history.
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Karen Clark has been writing professionally since 2001. Her work includes articles on gardening, education and literature. Clark has also published short literary fiction in the "Southern Humanities Review" and has co-authored a novel. Her professional experience includes teaching and tutoring students of all ages in literature, history and writing. She holds a Bachelor of the Arts in political science and a Master of Fine Arts in writing.