1936: The Abdication

Synopsis

Edward VIII became the first British monarch to voluntarily abdicate the throne in December 1936, following his controversial desire to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson. Born in 1894 as the eldest son of George, Duke of York, Edward was invested as Prince of Wales in 1911. His reign lasted less than a year, as opposition from the British government and the Church of England over his marriage choice led to his abdication. On December 11, 1936, he addressed the nation via radio to explain his decision.