George VI of the United Kingdom

Early life

As a child, Albert often suffered from ill health and he was described as 'easily frightened and somewhat prone to tears'. His parents, the Duke and Duchess of York, were generally removed from their children's upbringing, as was the norm in royal families of that era. Unfortunately this allowed the Royal nanny to have a dominating role in their young lives. The nanny doted over Albert's brother, Prince Edward, while neglecting Albert. Albert developed a severe stammer that lasted for many years as well as chronic stomach problems. He also suffered from knock knees, and to correct this he had to wear splints, which were extremely painful. He was also forced to write with his right hand although he was a natural left-hander. While it is not known if left-handedness is genetic, many members of the British Royal Family have been left-handed.

Related Topics:
Stammer - Left-hander - British Royal Family

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Growing up, he was completely outshone by his elder brother, whose dominance was one of the most important influences on his early life. Prince Edward had, according to almost everyone who ever knew him, had an extraordinary and magnetic charm. No one felt his charms more strongly than the younger members of his family. In the isolation of their lives, he was the most attractive person they ever knew. In childhood they followed his leadership, while as young men they ardently admired him.

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As a great grandson of Queen Victoria and the deceased Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in the male line, he was styled His Highness Prince Albert of York from his birth. In 1898, Queen Victoria passed letters patent which granted the children of the eldest son of the Prince of Wales the style Royal Highness. Thus Albert was then styled His Royal Highness Prince Albert of York.

Related Topics:
Queen Victoria - Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha - 1898 - Letters patent - Royal Highness

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Queen Victoria died on 22 January 1901. The Prince of Wales succeeded her as King Edward VII. The Duke of York became the new Prince of Wales. Prince Edward was then second in line for the throne, and Prince Albert was now third in line.

Related Topics:
22 January - 1901

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