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Lady Caroline Fox: The Oldest of the Iconic Lennox Sisters
Lady Caroline Lennox was the oldest of the acclaimed and scandalous Lennox sisters. A great-granddaughter of King Charles II, she eloped with disreputable politician Henry Fox in 1744 to the horror of her parents, the 2nd Duke and Duchess of Richmond.
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The Gallery of Beauties at Nymphemburg Palace, Munich
In 1827, King Ludwig I of Bavaria commissioned 36 portraits of the most beautiful women in Munich to adorn the walls of Schloss Nympenburg. Featuring royals, aristocrats, Ludwig's mistresses, the daughters of a shoemaker, a diplomat and a courtier, the Gallery of Beauties still fascinates.
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King John's Illegitimate Daughter: Joan, Lady of Wales
Joan, Lady of Wales was King John of England's illegitimate daughter, the wife of Llywelyn the Great of Wales and the possible great-grandmother of Scotland's Marjorie Bruce, daughter of Robert the Bruce and mother of King Robert II of Scotland, the first Stuart (Stewart) king.
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Teenager Alfonso of Spain's Mysterious 1956 Death
Spanish royal Infante Alfonso was 14 years old when he was shot dead by .22 calibre revolver on 29th March 1956. It wasn't an assassination, he was in his bedroom with his brother Juan Carlos, later the king of Spain 1975-2014. What happened?
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Princess Maria of Greece: "A True Daughter of Greece"
Princess Maria of Greece & Denmark reluctantly married Grand Duke George Mikhailovich of Russia in 1900. He was murdered by the Bolsheviks in 1919. She returned to Greece on a navy ship commanded by Admiral Perikles Ioannidis. They married, despite her daughters objections. The marriage was tested.
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The House of Liechtenstein: Rulers of a Mini European Principality
The House of Liechtenstein has ruled over diminutive Liechtenstein in the Upper Rhine Valley since the 12th century. It became a principality in the Holy Roman Empire in 1719 and a sovereign state around 1806. Prince Hans Adam II has been the head of state since 1989.
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A, E, I, O, U: Welcome to the Shortest Place Names That Start With a Vowel
A, E, I, O and U are familiar to us as the vowels that help to make multitudinous words. One letter is enough to identify a river, a city or a hill. There are numerous two-letter place names, including Aa, Ea and Oi.
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"Mossy": Princess Margaret of Prussia, Kaiser Wilhelm II's Sister
Princess Margaret of Prussia was the youngest sibling of Kaiser Wilhelm II and Queen Victoria's granddaughter. Later life, she showed sympathy for the Nazi cause.
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Beau Brummell: Georgian Era Fashion Icon Forced Into Exile
George "Beau" Brummell was a Georgian era style icon, a friend and then an enemy of King George. The elite in society watched him carrying out his toilette, and they copied his dress sense.
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Princess Patricia of Connaught, Lady Ramsey's Life
Princess Patricia of Connaught was one of Queen Victoria's granddaughters. She was popular, athletic, and artistic. When she married Sir Alexander Ramsey she stopped using her royal titles.
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The Duchy of Cornwall: The Heir to the British Throne's Estate
Where is the Duchy of Cornwall, what does it do and why is it important? The duchy (not county) was established by King Edward III in 1337 and it is the oldest English duchy. William, Prince of Wales is the 25th Duke of Cornwall and the Duchy made a profit of £24 million in the 2022/2023 tax year.
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Huis Doorn: Kaiser Wilhelm II's Home During His Dutch Exile
Huis Doorn in Utrecht, the Netherlands was the exiled German Kaiser Wilhelm II's residence between 1920-1941. He's buried in the garden's mausoleum.
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The Romanov Family Association's History
The Romanov Family Association and the Imperial House of Russia are not comprised of the same people. The association was established by senior Romanovs to maintain the links between all the relations and to help charities.
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Anna of Saxony: How Her Affair Led to Her Harsh Imprisonment
Wealthy and self absorbed Princess Anna of Saxony married William the Silent, Prince of Orange in 1561. Their union was miserable. She had an affair with Jan Rubens, the father of artist Peter Paul Rubens. Her punishment for adultery and bearing a child was merciless.
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Maud, 11th Countess of Southesk: King Edward 7th's Granddaughter
Maud Carnegie, 11th Countess of Southesk was a great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria and a grandchild of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra through their eldest daughter Louise. Maud wasn't a "working royal," but she was important to the British monarchy and the aristocracy in several ways.
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Schloss Rosenau: Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha's Birthplace
Schloss Rosenau in Germany was the birthplace of Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, the husband of Queen Victoria. Albert and his brother Ernst were raised there. Their father transformed it from a medieval residence once owned by the Lords of Rosenawe into a romantic gothic property.
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Queen Fabiola of Belgium: Multilingual Monarch, Nurse and Author
Queen Fabiola of the Belgians was a Spanish aristocrat. She worked as a nurse and volunteered in Madrid. She wrote a children's book before marrying Baudouin, King of the Belgians in December 1960.
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Nazi & Convicted War Criminal: Prince Josias of Waldeck and Pyrmont
Prince Josias of Waldeck and Pyrmont had royal relations across Europe. He became a Nazi in 1929, and he rose to the highest rank in the SS. He oversaw activities at Buchenwald Concentration Camp. He was tried as a war criminal and sentenced to life imprisonment. Amazingly, he didn't serve it.
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Ernst August 3rd: The Last Ruling Duke of Brunswick
Ernst August III, Duke of Brunswick, was the last ruling Duke of Brunswick in the German Empire. A descendant of King George III of Britain and the son-in-law of Kaiser Wilhelm II, Ernst August abdicated when the First World War was lost. His British titles were suspended, but he tried to use them.
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King George I's Mother, Sophia Dorothea: Britain's Queen in Waiting
King George I's mother, Sophia Dorothea, Electress of Hanover, was the greatest queen Britain never had. She was named Queen Anne's successor in 1701, but a twist of fate in 1714 meant that she didn't reign. Beautiful, enlightened and Herrenhausen Castle's creator, she wasn't always the best mother.
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Prince Edward, Duke of Kent: The Oldest Living Grandchild Of King George V
Prince Edward, Duke of Kent was born in 1935 and he is the oldest surviving grandchild of George V and Queen Mary. He is the longest serving duke in history and he and his wife Katherine have the longest marriage in the current British royal family. She's also the oldest British royal.
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Did King Felipe IV of Spain Deliver Tragedies to His Queen Consorts?
King Felipe IV of Spain and his wives Elisabeth of France and Maria Anna of Austria struggled to have healthy and long-lived children to take the Spanish throne. Was bad luck, intermarriage between Habsburg relations, or Felipe's plethora of mistresses to blame?
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Prince Joachim of Prussia: "A Fit of Excessive Dementia"
Prince Joachim of Prussia was Kaiser Wilhelm II's youngest son. He fought for Germany during the First World War and he was considered as a possible ruler of Ireland and Georgia in 1916 and 1917 respectively. He died aged 29 but not because of what his brother called "a fit of excessive dementia."
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Actress Katherina Schratt's Relationship With Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria
Austrian stage actress Katherina Schratt was the confidante of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria for over 30 years. Their relationship, said to have been platonic, was encouraged by his wife Empress Elisabeth (Sisi). Katherina was called the "uncrowned Empress of Austria" and she died aged 86 in 1940.
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Australia's Great Emu War of 1932
November 1932, the Wheatbelt, Western Australia. The crops are being decimated by emus. The Minister of Defence sends in the military to deal with the large feathered "pest" population. Never underestimate an emu as an opponent, as the Royal Australian Artillery found out to their embarrassment.
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The Oldest Home in Britain: Saltford Manor House, Somerset
Saltford Manor House in Saltford, southwest England holds the accolade of being the oldest continuously inhabited property in Britain. Built during the Norman era (circa 1160s) by William Fitz Robert, 2nd Earl of Gloucester, 13th-century artwork found in the house may be the oldest in the land.
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Richard Roose: The Cook That King Henry 8th Boiled to Death
In 1531 King Henry VIII ordered the execution of Richard Roose, a cook working for John Fisher, the Bishop of Rochester. An incident of poisoning killed two people. Fisher was an enemy of Henry's. Did he or his love Anne Boleyn arrange the poisoning? Henry hastily changed the law to boil Roose. Why?
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King Milan Obrenovic I: First King of Serbia and Father of the Last Obrenovic
In 1882 Milan Obrenovic I was proclaimed the first king of Serbia. The 1800s Obrenovics and their rivals the Karadordevics fought to rule. Unhappily married Milan was King Alexander I's father—he was the last Obrenovic. Milan's spending, policies and pro-Austrian outlook led to his abdication.
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Boudicca, "Victorious Woman": The Ancient Briton Who Fought the Romans
In 60/61 A.D. Ancient Briton & Iceni tribe queen Boudicca led a rebellion against Roman oppression. She burned Roman Colchester, London and St. Albans and she slaughtered the 9th Legion before Roman Governor of Britain Gaius Suetonius Paulinus and Boudicca met at the Battle of Watling Street.
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King Charles II and Louise De Kerouaille's Son: Charles Lennox, 1st Duke of Richmond
King Charles II and his French mistress Louise de Kerouaille had a son Charles Lennox in 1672. In 1675 the "merrie monarch" made his son the 1st Duke of Richmond, 1st Duke of Lennox. The cricket-loving duke owned Goodwood House, Sussex, Richmond House, London and Richmond Castle, North Yorkshire.
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Maximilian II: 16th Century Holy Roman Emperor, King and Archduke
Maximilian II, Holy Roman Emperor was powerful in 1500s Europe. His faith puzzled his subjects. He was a humanist, he was the leader of the traditionally Catholic Holy Roman Empire and he toyed with Lutheranism. Unlike the Tudors and his Habsburg relations, he was known for his religious tolerance.
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The Tower of London's Two Chapels: "Royal Peculiars"
The iconic Tower of London has two chapels known as royal peculiars. Queens Anne Boleyn, Katherine Howard and Jane Grey are at rest in the Chapel of St. Peter ad Vincula close to their execution site. The private Royal Chapel of St. John the Evangelist is in William the Conqueror's White Tower.
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The Royal Mayor of Palm Beach: Prince Paul Romanovsky-Ilyinsky
Paul Ilyinsky was the mayor of Palm Beach, Florida, for 3 terms in the 1990s. He was of Romanov descent. His father was Grand Duke Dmitri, involved in Rasputin's murder. Paul had several European royal cousins, including King Charles III. He's the only Romanov in history to hold public office.
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King Charles VI of France and the Glass Delusion
King Charles VI of France (1368-1422) suffered from glass delusion, a psychiatric disorder that led him to believe that he was made of glass and that he might shatter if touched. His case was not unique. Glass delusion peaked among Europe's nobility during the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance.
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Short-Lived Hard-Drinking King Harthacnut of England and Denmark
King Harthacnut of England and Denmark was the son of King Cnut—Canute the Great. He ruled Denmark for more years than England because his half-brother Harold Harefoot seized his throne. King Harthacnut was as unpopular in England as Cnut had been successful. He died drunk and young at a wedding.
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The Mystery of Archduke Johann Salvator of Austria and Alexander Hugo Kohler
Archduke Johann Salvator of Austria renounced his royal life in 1889. He married a dancer, purchased a captaincy and a ship he named the Santa Margareta, and they set sail for South America. The following year, they drowned. Or did they? Were Johann Salvator and Alexander Hugo Kohler the same man?
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Regency Courtesan Harriette Wilson Blackmailed British Society's Elite
Bold Regency courtesan Harriette Wilson captivated royal, aristocratic and political men. They flocked around her and pleaded to be introduced. When she reached the end of her career, she wrote her memoirs and blackmailed her past conquests. A suitable payment from them preserved their anonymity.
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What Is Trooping the Colour?
What is Trooping the Colour? It's the British monarch's birthday parade, but it's not always held around their real birthday. One regiment troops its colour, the regimental flag.
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Frank: Prince Francis of Teck, Queen Mary's Unruly Brother
Queen Mary's brother, Prince Francis of Teck, was expelled from Wellington College, gambled, and kept mistresses. When Frank died, his family learned what he'd done with the precious Cambridge emeralds.
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Francesco V: The Last Ruling Duke of Modena and Reggio
Duke Francesco V of the Duchy of Modena and Reggio (N.W. Italy) was from the House of Este, like the Hanoverian rulers. He was the Stuart pretender to Queen Victoria's British throne. He fled Modena and Reggio twice during rebellions. When Italy unified in 1861, his duchy was lost forever.
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Royal Rivals Catherine De Medici and Diane De Poitiers
Diane de Poitiers was King Henri II of France's mistress for 25 years. She outshone Henri's wife Catherine de Medici. Diane was viewed as the real queen, she possessed the French crown jewels and she owned property that Catherine wanted. Catherine's uncompromising revenge was delivered in July 1559.
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King Richard 3rd's Son and Heir Edward of Middleham, Prince of Wales
England's King Richard III and Anne Neville's only son and heir was Edward of Middleham, Prince of Wales. King Richard was slain during the Wars of the Roses at the Battle of Bosworth Field, Leicestershire, in August 1485. England's new king was King Henry VII. What happened to Edward of Middleham?
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Augustus the Strong: King of Poland and Elector of Saxony
Augustus the Strong, King of Poland, Grand Duke of Lithuania, Elector of Saxony, was remarkable for his physical strength, his many mistresses and illegitimate children. Pleasure-seeking, unhappily married, deposed and reinstated, a patron of the arts and science, he resisted Russian interference.
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"Baby" Princess Beatrice: Queen Victoria's Youngest Daughter
"Baby," Princess Beatrice was the youngest child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. Just four years old when Albert died, Beatrice was to be a companion and secretary to her demanding mother. After over six months of angry silence in 1884, Victoria allowed Beatrice to marry.
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Kaiser Wilhelm I: The First German Emperor
The first kaiser/emperor of the German Empire was the House of Hohenzollern's Wilhelm I. He became the King of Prussia in 1861. In 1871, after the Franco/Prussian War, he and Minister-President Otto von Bismarck established the German Empire that Wilhelm's grandson, Kaiser Wilhelm II shattered.
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Clarence House, London: History of King Charles the Third's Home
Clarence House, just off The Mall in London, has been home to several British royal family members since its construction in the 1820s. For over 20 years, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have used it as a city base. The monarchs still live at Clarence House instead of royal HQ Buckingham Palace.
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Karl, 3rd Prince of Leiningen: Queen Victoria's Half-Brother
Karl, 3rd Prince of Leiningen, was Queen Victoria's half-brother. Theirs was a fraught relationship; the rift was healed by his support of her coronation.
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Sayako Kuroda: The Former Princess Nori of Japan
Sayako Kuroda, formerly Princess Nori of Japan, was born into the Imperial family in 1969. Since her 2005 marriage, she has been a private citizen.
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Fortnum & Mason: An Iconic London Department Store Since 1707
William Fortnum established a luxury grocery store in 1707. Today Fortnum & Mason and its decadent hampers and mouthwatering afternoon teas are world-famous.
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Who Is the Stuart Heir to the British Throne?
Who is the Stuart heir to the British throne? If history had not played out as it did and either of the Jacobite rebellions in 1715 or 1745 had been successful, who would be the Stuart dynasty king or queen of Britain today? For Jacobites there was a King Charles III of Britain in the 18th century.
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Lola Montez: Spider Dance Courtesan and Mistress of Kings
Notorious dancer, courtesan and king's mistress Lola Montez was born Marie Gilbert in Ireland. She was expelled from several cities after performing her titillating Spider Dance.
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King Alexander I: The Greek King Killed by a Monkey
King Alexander I of Greece has the distinction of being the only monarch in history to be killed by a monkey. He left behind a controversial and pregnant widow, Aspasia Manos.
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Who Is the Most Titled Royal in the World Today?
Who is the most titled royal in the world today? The record holder is a princess in her 20s. She has 43 titles, and you probably haven't heard of her. The previous record holder was the extremely wealthy Cayetana Fitz-James, 18th Duchess of Alba; she had 57 titles and almost as many names.
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The Castle of Mey: The Queen Mother's Scottish Retreat
Barrogill Castle, or the Castle of Mey, in Caithness, Scotland, was purchased by Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1952. It has a long history, and today, the royal castle delights thousands of visitors with its extensive gardens.
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Gaston, Duke of Orleans: The Black Sheep of the French Royal Family
Gaston, Duke of Orleans was the black sheep of the French royal family, and he was exiled several times by both Louis XIII and Louis XIV.
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The Grand Ducal Palace: The Luxembourg Royal Family Residence
The Grand Ducal Palace started its long history as a town hall. It is the official residence of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg's royal family, although they don't live there.
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Edmund Crouchback: King Henry 3rd of England's Son
Edmund, 1st Earl of Lancaster, Earl of Leicester and Derby, was the second son of King Henry III of England from the House of Plantagenet. Known as Edmund Crouchback he was a formidable military leader and he annexed Wales for Edward I. Edmund is often forgotten in English history, which is a shame.
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Fort Belvedere, Windsor: Home of King Edward VIII Before Abdication
Fort Belvedere was the Windsor home of King Edward VIII. He spent his "happiest days" there as Prince of Wales. Built in the 1750s and owned by the crown, it has seen several royal and private residents.
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King Frederik IV of Denmark and Norway: Marriages, Mistresses and Bigamy
King Frederik IV of Denmark and Norway married twice legally and twice bigamously. His Majesty was almost three times a bigamist. The church officials did not forbid him from committing bigamy or polygamy, although they recommended that he didn't.
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France's Catherine de Valois, King Henry V of England and Owen Tudor
Catherine de Valois was the daughter of France's King Charles VI and a sister of Charles VII. She married King Henry V of England and was the mother of Henry VI. Her relationship with Welshman Owen Tudor gave history the Tudor dynasty.
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King Umberto II: The Last King of Italy
King Umberto II of Italy was the only son of King Victor Emmanuel III from the House of Savoy. The king endorsed a fascist regime under Benito Mussolini. Umberto's story is fascinating. He reigned for just 34 days in 1946 before a referendum ended the monarchy and a republic was established.
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Princess Feodora of Leiningen: Queen Victoria's Half Sister
Princess Feodora of Leiningen shared a mother with Britain's Queen Victoria. The two were close, and they were powerful women in their spheres. Feodora was widowed the year before Victoria, and she often proved herself to be a great support to her half-sister.
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Catherine of Braganza's Rude Awakening to Life as Stuart Queen Consort
Pious Roman Catholic Catherine of Braganza was chosen as a bride for Britain's Protestant King Charles II. Whatever Catherine expected life as a wife and queen consort to be like, she had a rude awakening that included ridicule, a scheming royal mistress and a husband who ignored her.
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Napoleon's Ex, Desiree Clary: Queen Desideria of Sweden and Norway
French-born Desiree Clary was the first fiancée of Napoleon Bonaparte. She unexpectedly became Desideria, Queen Consort of Sweden and Norway, when her husband was elected as ruler. She hated Sweden and lived in Paris for several years before finally taking up her royal role.
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The Tranby Croft Affair: A Victorian Gambling Scandal
The 1890 Tranby Croft affair or royal baccarat scandal caused a sensation in Victorian England. A country house gathering of titled affluent friends, including the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII), turned sour when accusations of cheating were made against Lt. Col. Sir William Gordon-Cumming.
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Eugene Francois Vidocq: Father of Criminology Was a Criminal
Frenchman and criminal Eugene Vidocq is considered to be the first private detective in history and the first person to open a detective agency. He is also credited with pioneering ballistics and C.S.I. techniques. His life before he turned away from crime was fascinating.
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It's Winter - Don't Let Go of Hope
Winter (literal and emotional) can be dark and forbidding but don't give up. Hope is a strong weapon and I hope that you enjoy this short poem.
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Princess Charlotte of Wales: Born to Be Queen but Dead at 21
Princess Charlotte of Wales was the only child of George, Prince of Wales, and Caroline of Brunswick. She met an untimely end in childbirth at age 21.
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Queen Salote of Tonga, Smiles in the Rain
Queen Salote Topou III ruled Tonga between 1918 and 1965. Her reign was the longest of any Tongan monarch. She was a wonderfully warm character who won hearts at Elizabeth II's 1953 coronation by getting rained on without one word of complaint. She even had a song written about her visit to London.
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Mary Queen of Scots First Husband: King Francis II of France
Mary Queen of Scots married the eldest son of Henri II of France and Catherine de Medici when they were teenagers. His reign was short, his health was poor and death came at the age of sixteen. He's often eclipsed by Mary's other husbands Darnley and Bothwell, but he deserves to be remembered.
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How to Address a Duke and Duchess
If you ever meet the Duke and Duchess of Wherever, you'll need to know the ancient etiquette involved. Should you call a duchess by her name or by a title? How do you address the children of a duke and duchess? Find out here.
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Zizi Lambrino and Carol II: Romania's Controversial Marriage
Zizi Lambrino married Prince Carol II of Romania in 1918. Why didn't Zizi become Romania's queen when her prince became king? And what happened to their son Mircea "Carol" Lambrino?
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St. James's Palace: The British Royal Family Workplace
Between Henry VIII and Queen Victoria's reigns, St. James's Palace was the site of the monarch's official court and a royal home. The palace still plays an enormous role in royal business.
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Prince Alexander of Battenberg's Surprisingly Short Rule Over Bulgaria
Prince Alexander of Battenberg was a 19th century German prince elected to rule over a newly independent Bulgaria in 1879 but was overthrown seven years later.
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The Dunce's Cap: Blessed John Duns Scotus' Hat Repurposed
Where did the dunce's cap come from and why was it popular in schools for centuries? Step forward Scottish born Franciscan theologian, philosopher and metaphysicist Blessed John Dun Scotus. He believed that conical hats enhanced learning. What happened to give the cap a negative association?
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King Wilhelm I of Wurttemberg: Love and Marriage Don't Always Go Together
King Wilhelm I of Wurttemberg "Fritz" ruled over the German Kingdom of Wurttemberg for almost fifty years. He's an ancestor of former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Wilhelm married three times, he kept mistresses. His father Friedrich had him arrested for trying to escape his destiny.
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Prince Albert Victor: Scandalous “Collars and Cuffs”
Prince Albert Victor, the scandalous prince nicknamed “Collars and Cuffs,” is best remembered for the Cleveland Street Scandal and the possibility that he was Jack the Ripper.
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Queen Astrid of Belgium: Lost 29 August 1935
Queen Astrid of Belgium was born in Sweden and was a sought-after royal bride. Referred to as the "Snow Queen," her life was cut tragically short on 29 August 1935.
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When You Meet a British Royal, What's the Etiquette?
What are the rules when someone meets a British royal? The working royals carry out hundreds of royal visits each year and they know exactly how people should behave. If you ever find yourself in the company of a royal figure here are 5 tips that will help.
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The History of Iconic Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey in London has hosted every monarch's coronation since 1066. It has been the scene of 17 royal weddings, and it's the final resting place of thousands.
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The British Royal Family's Line of Succession
The British royal family has ruled over England since 927 A.D. with no break in the bloodline. Who follows Charles III in the British line of succession, and in which order?
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Harry, Please Go to Sleep - a Children's Rhyme
Harry, Please Go To Sleep is a children's rhyme. It's a bedtime battle of wills between little Harry and his wise and sleepy brain cell Brainy. Who will win the battle?
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The Greek Prince Who Said No to 3 European Thrones
Prince Christopher of Greece and Denmark was born in 1888. He was the youngest son of King George I. His amiability, intellect and availability led three European countries to approach him about becoming their king. He refused each offer.
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King William II Rufus: Sibling Rivalry and a Suspicious Death
From sibling rivalry to tyranny, a suspicious death to a lack of peace in death, William II Rufus’ story is remarkable. Yet, this son of William the Conqueror, 1st Norman king of England, is too often forgotten.
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Steadfast Princess Alexandra, the Honourable Lady Ogilvy
Princess Alexandra was a trusted first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II during the latter's life and much of her own life has been spent doing work for the Crown.
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Hippopotomonstrosesquipedaliophobia! - A Poem
I love words and here's a new discovery. It's 35 of your finest letters long and its meaning is truly ironic. I had to write a poem. I love them too!
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Maud, Princess of Wales, Queen of Norway
Princess Maud of Wales was King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra's youngest daughter. She married Prince Carl of Denmark. Carl was chosen as the new king of Norway in 1905. As King Haakon VII and Queen Maud their success came from the realisation that they needed to become as Norwegian as possible.
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A Good Book Is a Friend for Life
Enjoy this poem about books and their power to enthrall. They offer the reader friendship whatever their mood or life stage.
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Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex: Life and Library
Prince Augustus Frederick, Duke of Sussex, was Queen Victoria's favourite uncle. He married illegally twice according to the Royal Marriages Act 1772. He was liberal in his outlook and more academic than his siblings. Augustus' library of over 50,000 books at Kensington Palace was his great legacy.
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British Royal Palaces and Homes Quiz
How well do you know the British royal family's palaces and homes? Can you tell Balmoral from Sandringham and Kensington Palace? Give this quiz a try. Confirm what you know already or learn some new information. Enjoy.
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Princess Cecilia of Sweden, Grand Duchess of Oldenburg
During her short life, Princess Cecilia of Sweden, Grand Duchess of Oldenburg, witnessed political and personal upheaval.
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Princess Daisy of Pless: Socialite in Britain and Germany
Daisy, Princess of Pless, was a wealthy British-born society beauty. She married into the Prussian House of Hochberg and was an Englishwoman in Germany during WWI.
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What Is the Commonwealth of Nations?
The Commonwealth of Nations evolved from the British Empire, but its member states do not need ties to it or to have HM Queen Elizabeth II as their monarch. What does the Commonwealth of Nations do? Find out more about it here.
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Spencer Perceval: Britain's Only Assassinated Prime Minister
British Prime Minister Spencer Perceval was the son of the 2nd Earl Egmont, and he enjoyed notable careers in law and politics before he took the top job in 1809. On 11 May 1812, he was assassinated by John Bellingham in the lobby of the House of Commons.
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Kat Ashley: Tudor Queen Elizabeth I's True Friend
Kat Ashley was employed as the future Queen Elizabeth I's governess in 1537. The two women became allies in the Tudor world of intrigues and power struggles.
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Woodstock Palace: Once a Royal Residence and Jail
Woodstock Palace in Oxfordshire, England, was a royal hunting lodge, hideaway for a mistress, birthplace of princes and jail for Elizabeth Tudor (Queen Elizabeth I).
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Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II's Eldest Son "Little Willie"
Crown Prince Wilhelm of the German Empire and Kingdom of Prussia was the successor to a withdrawn throne after his father Kaiser Wilhelm II drew nations into the First World War. In 1918, "Kaiser Bill" found himself on the losing side and exiled. What was the heir to the throne's life like?
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How Prince Albert Lost His Mother Aged 5
Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha's childhood was marked by the unnecessary loss of his mother in 1824 when he was just 5 years old. In a spectacular display of double standards by his father Ernst, mama was banished for having an affair and banned from having a relationship with her children.
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4 Poems About Life and Time
Four poems about life and time. Is time a friend, a foe or neutral? Is the pain of today set to mark your tomorrow or can it lead to a better day?
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Royal Names Quiz: How Well Do You Know the British Royals?
The House of Windsor has ruled in Britain since the First World War. But how well do you know your Anne's from your Edward's and your Elizabeth's from your George's? Try this quiz to find out.
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The Sticky Story of the Penny Black Stamp
The first prepaid adhesive stamp in the world was the Penny Black. Did you know that it was quickly abandoned? Read on for answers.
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Queen Henrietta Maria: King Charles I's Controversial Wife
French-born Henrietta Maria was the daughter, sister, mother and wife of kings. In 1625, she became the Protestant King Charles's wife, herself a Catholic.
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The Writer - a Poem About Joy Returning After Loss
This poem was inspired by a real lady who lost her husband, her only love, after a long marriage. She struggled to find her purpose and light for many months and then joy returned slowly but surely. When a new love arrived she was ready to welcome it.
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12 Things I Learned About Family Life Before I Was a Teenager
This is a light-hearted look at some of life's important lessons and realisations that helped me to become the person I am today...or not!
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Mr. Pessimist, Mrs. Optimist
Are you a pessimist or an optimist? When we look at the state of the world it's easy to feel negative but positivity has to win in the end. (Fingers crossed).
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Inspirational Poem: The Bridge
Taking a moment to reflect and replenish the soul is vital to our health, mental and physical. This poem titled The Bridge looks at that moment.
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Just Her Hand? A Short Story
An amusing tale about how plans can go awry thanks to family. Take a marriage proposal as an example. (Inspired by real events.)
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Prey, Bar Cruiser and Tornado: 3 Poems
Prey, Bar Cruiser and Tornado speak about scenarios and characters that people can encounter in life. In the face of adversity we find out who we are.
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Lady Jane Grey's Claim to the Tudor Throne
Lady Jane Grey became known in history as the tragic Nine Days' Queen. Why did she think of herself as the rightful queen of England when Henry VIII's daughter, Mary, was waiting in the wings?
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Charles II vs. Frances Stuart: The One That Got Away
Charles II is renowned for his legion of ladies. Despite mistresses including Nell Gwyn and Barbara, Duchess of Cleveland and myriad illegitimate children—several named Charles or Charlotte—this merry monarch didn't captivate his cousin, the beautiful Frances Stuart. It was a shock to his ego.
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Henry Frederick, Prince of Wales: Charles I's Elder Brother
The Scottish prince who became King Charles I of Britain had an elder brother who died in 1612. It's tempting to wonder whether Henry Frederick would have been a better king than Charles who lost his head and his throne.
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Will We Ever Learn?
The planet and many of its people are facing danger and yet humanity seems to be stuck in a loop, repeating its worst episodes. Please be inspired and not depressed by this poem.
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Emperor Karl I of Austria: The Last House of Habsburg Ruler
World War I brought an end to the Habsburg dynasty's centuries-long rule over Austria-Hungary and Bohemia. Emperor Karl I never abdicated, but his people and parliament deserted him and forced him into exile.
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You - A Love Poem
That special moment when Cupid and his arrow pay you a visit and the world makes sense.
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Harry Houdini: Headline-Making Escapologist
Harry Houdini was born Erik Weisz in Bucharest in 1874. He set a high benchmark for every escapologist who came after him. He was the ultimate showman and salesman.
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Be: A Poem About Self Care and Mental Health
Mental health, mental illness. We all have to take care of our brains and wellbeing to thrive but how often do we consciously do this? Written from experience, Be is a reminder that we weren't created to be accessible 24-7 and that me-time is not a luxury item. Bonus poem: Anxiety.
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The Queen Who Quit: Eccentric Christina of Sweden
Queen Christina of Sweden was eccentric and unique. Proclaimed queen as a child, she stunned Europe when she quit as ruler aged 27. Exile from Sweden didn't stop her from trying to reclaim power or from using her royal prerogative to murder her advisor.
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Writing Is a Real Job
Any writer will tell you that it's hard work, long hours and some days you may want to do anything but write. Don't let anyone tell you that writing is not a real job. It is and it's one to enjoy too. Don't let the dream stealers win!
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Ceasefire - A Poem and Thoughts About Media Attitude
Everyone copes in their own way with attacks on human decency and we should help each other, shouldn't we, not backbite and cast aspersions? Media, try to lead the way, please.
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Alexandra of Denmark: From Minor Royal to Princess of Wales
Princess Alexandra of Denmark rose from relative obscurity as a minor royal to become the Princess of Wales and later Britain's queen consort. How did she find herself married to a wayward prince despite Queen Victoria's preference for German daughters-in-law?
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Spain's King Alfonso 13th: The Last King Before Franco's Rule
Alfonso XIII of Spain was intelligent, spirited and loved to sport a uniform, but he reigned during a time of political, military and civil unrest. Thirteen was indeed an unlucky number for this monarch. He had no part to play in General Franco's Spain.
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10 Great Writing Quotes - And My Thoughts On Them
There's so much fantastic advice and quotes from authors out there for writers to test theories, adopt habits and make positive progress. (We'll ignore the less beneficial advice for the good of our sanity.) Below are 10 excellent quotes from writers that have helped me during my writing career.
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James Cook's Venus Transit Mission in Tahiti, 1769
The Transit of Venus in 1769 was of interest to the entire world. Captain James Cook was sent to the South Pacific by King George III to chart the astronomical event.
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Russia's St. Petersburg: A City "Built on Human Bones"
St. Petersburg in Russia, established in 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great, included 370 bridges, streets, squares and palaces that enlivened the banks of the River Neva.
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How to Read Body Language: A Beginner's Guide to Kinesics
The ability to read body language is a useful life skill. What someone says or doesn't say can be betrayed by their actions. Nonverbal communication offers clues.
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The Official British Royal Diary Since 1803: The Court Circular
To know what a British royal has been doing and where they've travelled to on the monarch's behalf it's best to check the official Court Circular. Created in 1803, it gives people an accurate idea of the royal family members' workloads.
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The Interesting Story of "God Save the King/Queen"
The British national anthem arrived in 1745 under dramatic circumstances: The Jacobite Rebellion of 1745, in which Bonnie Prince Charlie from the Stuart dynasty tried to overthrow King George II from the House of Hanover. It was a patriotic song for George.
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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Me, the Writer
This writer has had OCD for over 10 years. If you have this condition, you're not mad and you're not alone.
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Good Morning! Why We Wake Up, Toast and Coffee Science
Do you need answers to a few of life's little morning mysteries? Why do we wake up every morning instead of sleeping until noon? Is it Murphy's Law or science that makes your toast land buttery side down? Is there a scientific reason why that first cup of coffee tastes amazing? Read on...
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About Hadrian's Wall
Why was Hadrian's Wall constructed in the 120s A.D. in Roman Britannia? Today, only sections of the wall exist, impressing and revealing insights into English history.
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Scotland's Robert Burns: The Inspiration for Burns Night
Robert "Rabbie" Burns is considered the national poet (bard) of Scotland. From his works, such as "Tam o' Shanter" and "Old Lang Syne", to his colourful love life, Burns is a character Scotland can never forget.
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Accused: A Royal Witch in Medieval England?
Long before Henry VIII's wife Anne Boleyn was branded a witch there was another royal wife who was found guilty of using witchcraft. Eleanor Cobham became the Duchess of Gloucester in controversial circumstances but did she really try to claim the English throne from Henry VI?
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The Last Invasion of Britain Was Comedy Gold
When was the last invasion of Britain? The Norman Conquest of 1066? The Glorious Revolution of 1688? These were the last two successful invasions but there was another one in 1797. The little-known Battle of Fishguard provided an amusing note for British history lovers and embarrassment for France.
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Princess Hermine: Kaiser Wilhelm II's Controversial Second Wife
Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany's wife of 40 years died in 1921. In 1922, he married a 34-year-old widow who campaigned for her husband's restoration and an end to their exile. She also courted the Nazis. Who was Hermine Reuss of Greiz?
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"Mad" King Ludwig II of Bavaria: Regicide or Suicide?
"Mad" King Ludwig II of Bavaria's passions were art, music and architecture. He was popular with his people but not his politicians. In June 1886, the king was removed from power, declared insane and died suddenly. Was it regicide or suicide that ended Ludwig's reign?
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Britain's Highest & Oldest Chivalric Order: The Order of the Garter
The Order of the Garter is the most prestigious chivalric honour in Britain. A gift bestowed by the monarch, it has a long fascinating history, a limited number of members, "Honi soit qui mal y pense" as a motto, luxurious robes and impressive medals.
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The Rise and Fall of Narcissist King Richard II
King Richard II ascended the throne at 10. His broken promises, favorites at court and his inflated self-worth eventually cost him the crown.
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Mulled Wine's Rich Global History
Mulled wine is perfect for winter and Christmas celebrations. It has a longer and more interesting history than you might realise.
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The UK's Pre-Winter Covid Booster Jab Issue
In the U.K. eligible double vaccinated people are not coming forward in the numbers expected to receive their Covid booster shot ahead of winter pressure on the National Health Service. This could spell disaster.
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Is it Just Me Or Has the World Gone Mad?
Now, it could just be me, perhaps I nodded off and woke up in a parallel universe but this red tape, paperwork, medicine related situation seems totally nutty to me!
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The Story of Guy Fawkes and the Gunpowder Plot
Every year, Britain observes Guy Fawkes Night on November 5th. Learn about Guy Fawkes' story and his involvement in the Gunpowder Plot.
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Princess Helena, Queen Victoria's Stoic Daughter-in-Law
Helena of Waldeck and Pyrmont married Queen Victoria's youngest son Prince Leopold, Duke of Albany in 1882. His longed-for freedom was cut short. As a young widow Helena carved out a positive, proactive and charitable role for herself that helped thousands of people in her adopted country.
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Marie Louise, the “Princess of Nowhere”: Queen Victoria's Granddaughter
Princess Marie Louise was the last surviving granddaughter of Queen Victoria, and her story features triumph over adversity. Through marriage and war, she became known as the “princess of nowhere.”
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The Story of Prince Louis Battenberg: 1st Marquess of Milford Haven
German Prince Louis of Battenberg's British navy career was enviable, but his promotions were controversial. He married his cousin Pss. Victoria of Hesse and by Rhine in 1884; one of his grandchildren was Prince Philip (1921-2021). World War I brought seismic changes for Louis.
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Britain's Poet Laureate: The Monarch's Poetry King or Queen
England's first poet laureate was John Dryden in 1668. The British Poet Laureate is chosen by the monarch, and they create poetry for symbolic moments.
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Terrorist Strikes at the Spanish Royal Wedding in 1906
We love royal weddings. This article is about the 31st May 1906 royal wedding in Madrid. King Alfonso XIII of Spain married H.R.H. Victoria Eugenie (Ena) of Battenberg, Queen Victoria's granddaughter. The fairytale turned into a nightmare as an anarchist's bomb hit the Calle Mayor.
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The Cornish Pasty: Part of Cornwall's Cultural Heritage
The delectable Cornish pasty has a long history. Did you know that there are rules that must be obeyed to ensure that a pasty bearing the description of Cornish is worthy of the name?
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British Born Queen Louise of Denmark and Norway's Life Story
How many children decide that they want to be a princess when they grow up? It's not all tiaras and floaty dresses. The life of Louise, the youngest daughter of King George II and Queen Caroline of Britain, was not as charmed as you might imagine. Her husband was not a man she would have chosen.
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Elizabeth I's English Armada Disaster in 1589
The Spanish Armada of 1588 is a well-known part of history. The English Armada, or the Counter Armada, has rarely been spoken of or written about, thanks to Elizabeth I.
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The No Fuss Princess: Mary, Princess Royal, Countess of Harewood
Princess Mary, the only daughter of King George V and Queen Mary, is often left in the shadow of her brothers, but she was a trailblazer. From the Princess Mary Christmas Gift Boxes to seeking higher education for women, we owe her gratitude for inspiring later generations.
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Mary, Queen of Scots' Second Marriage: Marry in Haste, Murder Later
Arrogant Lord Henry Darnley married his cousin Mary, Queen of Scots on 29th July 1565. He murdered a courtier and was slain before his 2nd wedding anniversary. His family relationships with Mary, Queen Elizabeth I of England, and James Hepburn, 4th Earl of Bothwell brought no safety.
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Is "The Tiger Who Came to Tea" Actually Sexist?
The much-loved children's book "The Tiger Who Came to Tea," by Judith Kerr, has been accused of perpetuating gender stereotypes and inequalities which could lead to abuse and rape. This is my take on the argument.
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Who Stole the Irish Crown Jewels in 1907?
The Irish regalia was stolen from Dublin Castle in mid-1907. The star, badge and collars of the Order of St. Patrick, known as the Irish crown jewels, have never been recovered. The theft remains a tantalising mystery. Whodunnit?
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British Honours: The M.B.E., O.B.E. and C.B.E. Explained
The British Honours System can look confusing. Here's some clarification about the M.B.E, O.B.E. and C.B.E.
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Philip de László: Royal Portrait Painter and Prisoner
In the early 20th century, portrait artist Philip de László (1869–1937) produced works of the elite in society and numerous European royal figures. Despite his connections, he faced his darkest hours during the First World War.
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Princess Victoria: "A Glorified Maid"
Princess Victoria of Wales was Edward VII and Queen Alexandra's second daughter. Her life was marked by an air of sacrifice. Not all princesses get a fairytale ending.
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Madame de Pompadour, Louis XV of France's Love
Madame de Pompadour was born Mlle. Jeanne Antoinette Poisson in Paris in 1721. How did a young girl from the Paris suburbs become King Louis XV of France's mistress and remain a friend to him until she died?
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Margaret: Tragic Queen of Scotland, Maid of Norway
Margaret, Maid of Norway, had a short and tragic life. Born in Norway, she was proclaimed Queen of Scotland at age three. Great plans were made for her by her great uncle Edward I of England, but they never came to pass. She died aged seven.
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Ernest, Duke of Cumberland: Rapist and Murderer?
Ernest, Duke of Cumberland, King of Hanover, was cast as a villain by the Georgian people. He was controversial, unlikeable and prone to finding himself in the middle of a scandal. His reputation remains dire.
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Call Me King Edward VII Not Albert I: Prince Albert's Memory Cast a Long Uncomfortable Shadow
The larger-than-life King Edward VII was named Albert Edward by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. He decided he could not rule as an Albert when his time to reign came because of his father.
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Edward the Black Prince: A Flawed Medieval Hero
Edward III of England's eldest son, Edward of Woodstock (aka "the Black Prince"), was the first Prince of Wales not to ascend the throne and the first-ever duke in England. He was a celebrated soldier and was cast as a villain for his brutality.
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Prince John: The British Royal Most People Don't Know Existed
Prince John of Wales (1905–1919) was King George V and Queen Mary's youngest son but he has been lost in the annals of royal history. Why?
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Queen Victoria Survived Eight Assassination Attempts
Being royal has its challenges, and when you are head of "the firm," as the British monarchy is known, this includes disloyal subjects taking potshots at your royal self. Queen Victoria managed to cheat death eight times at the hands of would-be assassins.
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Charles II and Prince Rupert's English Civil War: Fighting for Charles I's Honour
A lot has been written about Charles I in the English Civil Wars, but his son and heir, the future King Charles II, had an adventurous youth fighting for his father with the Royalists. Charles could not save Charles I from his fate of execution, but he tried.
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Together Even When Apart and Three More Poems
Together Even When Apart and Familiarity were inspired by my grandparents Henry and Ivy who were amazing people. The Thorn and The Empty House happily fell out of my imagination.
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Edward II of England Was Overthrown by His Wife
Edward II of England and Isabella of France were married, but there was no happily ever after. What led Isabella to stage a coup and overthrow her king-husband, and why was she branded a she-wolf?
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Saint and King: David I of Scotland
Long before Scotland, Wales, England and Ireland had the same king or queen, these kingdoms had their own rulers. Scotland, then named Alba, had David as their king between 1124 and 1153. He led an interesting and exacting life. The "Davidian Revolution" changed his land forever.
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Colonel Thomas Blood Tries to Steal the British Crown Jewels
Colonel Thomas Blood was a charming rogue. He is remembered for his failed attempt to steal the crown jewels from the Tower of London in May 1671. Events amused Stuart king Charles II so much that Blood was rewarded for his escapade.
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Hans Holbein: Henry VIII’s Portrait Painter
Hans Holbein came from an artistic Bavarian family and is best remembered as Henry VIII and his ever-changing family's portrait painter. Learn how he found himself at the Tudor court.
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1642: King Charles I Storms Parliament
In 1642, Charles I entered Parliament and soon lost his head and his throne. Why does no king or queen ever go into the House of Commons in London's Parliament?
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"Royal" British Dukes
The members of the British royal family hold multiple aristocratic, honorary, and military titles. Take the highest-ranking aristocrat: the Duke. Is a royal duke any different from a non-royal one? Who is a royal duke and who won't be in the future?
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Royal Traditions: Swan Upping
For over nine centuries the royal ceremony of Swan Upping has been held along a stretch of the River Thames. Its purpose today is different to its origins but Swan Upping attracts a crowd each July.
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Anne Neville, the Forgotten Queen and Wife of Richard III
Anne Neville was born in June 1456 at Warwick Castle in Warwickshire. She had a short life that featured family dramas, civil war, two marriages and a wealth of personal loss. She witnessed and participated in several pivotal moments in history, yet she is often overlooked.
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Why George II Detested His Father, George I
George I from the House of Hanover earned hatred from his son, George (II), at an early age. His drastic and hurtful actions toward his wife Sophia Dorothea of Celle shattered the family and created animosity. “Hanoverians, like pigs trample their young.” Anon. And their wives.
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George III's Illness and Misdiagnosis
George III suffered from mental health issues from 1765 onward. His most well-known bout occurred in 1788. Porphyria has long been the preferred diagnosis, but studies have revealed that there was another likely cause of his suffering. Read on to learn what it is.
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The Spectacular Imperial State Crown
Britain's Imperial State Crown is the most frequently worn royal crown in the country's crown jewels. It's used at the coronation of every monarch of Britain and the Commonwealth. There have been several versions, and the jewels, such as the Stuart Sapphire and the Star of Africa, are awe-inspiring.
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Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Strong Woman in a Man's World
Two times queen Eleanor of Aquitaine was one of the most powerful and unusually well educated women in 12th century Europe. She proved herself equal to and often better at ruling than her husbands, the Kings Louis VII of France and Henry II of England.
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Dirty Bertie: The Prince of Wales and the Mordaunt Divorce
Before he became the Uncle of Europe, Edward VII was well known as a playboy prince of Wales. In 1870, he was embroiled in the sensational Mordaunt divorce case. It was the first time that a Prince of Wales had appeared in a public court. The scandal severely rocked the monarchy's popularity.
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George IV: Meet Britain's Most Unpopular Monarch
Most royals are popular. Not George IV. He was Britain's most despised king. A royal with a gigantic appetite, he offered few positive characteristics or legacies.