The Path to Queen Victoria: Predecessors of the British Monarchy

Before Queen Victoria, the British throne witnessed a succession of intriguing and often tumultuous reigns. This article delves into the key figures who reigned before her, from the early days of the United Kingdom to the complex reigns of William IV and King George III.

Pre-Restoration Monarchs

The Union of Crowns (1603-1707)

Before the formation of the Kingdom of Great Britain in 1707, Britain did not technically have a single monarch for the entire country. Instead, the Union of the Crowns brought together crowns from different kingdoms. Here are the monarchs of the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland:

James I/VI (1603-1625) - He ruled both the Kingdom of England and the Kingdom of Scotland simultaneously. Charles I (1625-1649) - His reign over both kingdoms ended with the English Civil War. Great Interregnum - During this period, Oliver Cromwell served as Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England. Charles II (1660-1685) - He re-established the monarchy after the death of Cromwell. James II/VII (1685-1688) - His reign ended with the Glorious Revolution.

Monarchs of the Kingdom of Great Britain (1707-1801)

Queen Anne (1707-1714) George I (1714-1727) George II (1727-1760) George III (1760-1801)

The Early 19th Century and Beyond

As we move into the early 19th century, the succession becomes even more interesting. The reigns of King George III and his successors are marked by political intrigue and personal drama.

King George III: The 'Mad King'

King George III (1760-1820) was known as perhaps the most prolific in producing heirs, with 15 children. His eldest son, Prince George, became the future George IV.

However, the early 19th century was not without its complications. George III had to navigate the Prince Regency due to his ill health. His son, Prince George, presided over the Prince Regency alongside Princess Caroline of Brunswick. Their marriage was filled with tension, and it’s said that they only consummated it once, enough to produce an heir who would become Princess Charlotte of Wales.

The Tragic End of the Line

Princess Charlotte of Wales died in childbirth in 1817, leaving no legitimate heir. This made the way clear for her grandfather, George III, to become King George IV. However, he also died without legitimate heirs. His second son, Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany, followed, but he too died childless in 1827.

The throne then passed to another younger brother, William IV, who became King in 1830.

The Final Predecessor to Queen Victoria

King William IV inherited the throne despite having no legitimate children of his own. His reign was marked by significant political changes, leading up to the Reform Act of 1832 and the electoral reform that transformed the British political landscape.

The journey from the Union of Crowns to the death of William IV in 1837 seamlessly transitions to the accession of Queen Victoria, marking the beginning of an era that lasted over 63 years.