The Rise and Fall of Edward VIII: His Abdication and Life After

Edward VIII's decision to abdicate the throne and marry Wallis Simpson is one of the most notable events in British royalty. Despite popular misconceptions, Edward was never crowned as King due to his decision to abdicate. This article delves into the historical context, the circumstances surrounding his abdication, and the life he led thereafter.

Edward VIII and the Boom of 1936

Edward VIII ascended to the throne following the death of his father, King George V. His reign, however, was brief—just 11 months. This limited period was marked by significant societal controversy and political challenges, centered around his proposed marriage to Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee.

The Reason Behind His Abdication

Edward was refused permission to marry Wallis Simpson due to her divorcees status. At the time, remarriage of a divorced person was not accepted within the Church of England, nor was it palatable to the British establishment. The government, the church, and society were deeply opposed to the idea of a King marrying someone still legally married to another person.

Denial of Coronation

Edward VIII was well aware that he would not be permitted to be both King and married to Wallis Simpson. Hence, he chose to abdicate the throne, thereby giving up the constitutional rights and responsibilities of the monarchy to his younger brother, Albert, who became King George VI. As the official King, Edward VIII did not actually attend the planned coronation festivities slated for the following June.

Life After the Abdication

Following his abdication, Edward married Wallis Simpson in France. They were exiled from their former life in England and settled in Paris. Their relationship faced international scrutiny, but they lived quietly and fulfilled various roles.

Exile and Government Position

When the Germans invaded France during World War II, Edward and Wallis escaped to Spain and then to Portugal. Later, he resumed residency in Paris but took on the position of Governor of the Bahamas, a less conspicuous role away from the public eye.

Edward's Later Years and Death

Edward lived a life of quiet seclusion following his abdication. He passed away in May 1972 and was buried in the Royal burial ground at Frogmore, Windsor. Wallis Simpson, his former wife, died in 1986 and was interred beside him.

The Role of Bertie

During the period Edward VIII abdicated, his younger brother Albert, known by the nickname Bertie, was initially horrified at the thought of taking the role of King. However, with the strong support of his wife, he took the regnal name of George and succeeded as King George VI. Under his leadership, the country navigated through one of the most difficult times in its history, including the Great Depression and World War II.

The story of Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson remains a fascinating chapter in British history. It illustrates the clash between personal desires and the expectations and norms of a monarchy. While Edward chose love over kingship, his brother found the strength to step up and lead the nation with dignity and grace.

Keywords: Edward VIII, Wallis Simpson, British Monarchs, Abdication