Pronunciation: [wˈɪli͡əm ˈɪv] (IPA) 
William IV is a former king of the United Kingdom. The spelling of his name is Wɪljəm fɔːθ, according to the International Phonetic Alphabet. The "w" is pronounced like "wuh" and the "i" is pronounced like "ih" followed by a "y" sound. The "ll" is pronounced like a soft "L" and the "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." The "m" is pronounced like "muh" and the "IV" is pronounced as "fɔːθ."
William IV, also known as William Henry, was a British monarch who ruled as the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 1830 to 1837. Born on August 21, 1765, he was the third son of King George III and Queen Charlotte.
William IV ascended to the throne following the death of his older brother, George IV. As king, he played a relatively minor role in British politics, and his reign is often seen as a transitional period. His time as king witnessed significant changes, such as the passing of the Reform Act of 1832, which aimed to reform the representative system in England, Wales, and Scotland.
Although William IV's reign was relatively short, he was well-regarded by the public for his common touch and his willingness to engage with ordinary people. His informal manner and popular nickname "Sailor King" reflected his naval career in his youth.
However, William IV faced some challenges during his reign, such as opposition from traditionalists who opposed political and social reforms. Nevertheless, he is remembered as a monarch who oversaw a period of change and set the stage for the Victorian era.
William IV died on June 20, 1837, without leaving any legitimate heirs. Consequently, his niece Victoria succeeded him as queen, and her lengthy reign defined an era of significant transformation and progress.
