King Edward VIII, born Edward Albert Christian George Andrew Patrick David, was the eldest son of King George V and Queen Mary, and was born on June 23, 1894. He held the position of King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions from January 20, 1936, until his abdication on December 11, 1936.
Edward VIII's accession to the throne was met with immense public interest, however, his reign was overshadowed by his controversial decision to marry Wallis Simpson, an American socialite and divorcee. The potential marriage created a constitutional crisis due to the disapproval of the British government and the Church of England towards Simpson's marital history, thereby leading to Edward's ultimate abdication.
Despite his short and tumultuous reign, Edward VIII is notable for his modernization efforts and progressive outlook. He promoted social welfare policies and addressed pressing issues such as unemployment and poverty. Edward VIII's abdication paved the way for his younger brother, George VI, to ascend to the throne.
Following his abdication, Edward VIII was granted the title Duke of Windsor and married Simpson in 1937. They lived primarily in France and the Bahamas, where Edward served as Governor during World War II. Edward VIII passed away on May 28, 1972, in Paris, France.
