From The Throne: Why Did Edward VII Abdicate?

Edward VII: Since her passing on September 8, 2022, the United Kingdom has been reflecting on Queen Elizabeth II, who, at 70 years of age, was the longest-reigning monarch in its history.

Not all monarchs have governed as long as Elizabeth II; her uncle, Edward VIII, reigned for less than a year.

Edward voluntarily gave up the throne, allowing his younger brother George to become monarch. His love for American divorcee Wallis Warfield Simpson significantly influenced his decision to abdicate.

Exactly When Did Edward VIII Become King?

The eldest son of King George V, who ascended to the throne in 1920, Edward was born in 1894. When King George V passed away in January 1936 at 70, his son Edward was declared the next monarch.

Compared to Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign, his 325 days as monarch were brief. As a result, Edward’s younger brother became King; he is the father of current monarch Elizabeth II.

The Reasons Why Edward Abdicated?

Edward abdicated because he had fallen in love with Wallis Warfield Simpson, an American socialite married to his uncle, Ernest Simpson. Because Wallis was divorced and remarried, the royal family disapproved of her connection with Edward.

Wallis was able to secure a temporary divorce decree in October 1936. But the British political establishment and the Church of England both deemed Simpson unsuitable for the throne.

Since the impasse could not be overcome, Edward declared his abdication on December 10. Ever since his older brother, King George VI, ascended to the throne, Edward took the title of Duke of Windsor. Edward and Wallis got married in France in June of 1937.

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My name is Gourav Singh, and some of my favorite hobbies include watching movies and television series, playing sports, and listening to music. For my blog posts, I prefer to write about themes that are lighthearted and fun to read and write about. To keep things light and entertaining, I'll include funny observations on life or a summary of the most recent entertainment news. Check out my blog if you're in the mood for some light entertainment.