King George VI of the United Kingdom is buried in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.

King George VI: A Monarch Forged in Crisis and War

King George VI, born Albert Frederick Arthur George on 14 December 1895, reigned as the monarch of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 11 December 1936 until his death on 6 February 1952. His reign was particularly significant as it encompassed the tumultuous years of World War II and the subsequent period of post-war reconstruction and imperial transformation. Concurrently, he held the title of the last Emperor of India until August 1947, when the British Raj was officially dissolved, marking a pivotal moment in global history.

Born during the extensive reign of his great-grandmother Queen Victoria, he was christened Albert, a tribute to his esteemed great-grandfather, Albert, Prince Consort. Affectionately known as "Bertie" by his family and close circle of friends, his early life was largely lived outside the direct line of succession. His father ascended the throne as King George V in 1910, but as the second son, Albert was not anticipated to inherit the Crown. He spent his formative years in the shadow of his charismatic elder brother, Prince Edward, who was the heir apparent. Albert received a comprehensive education, attending naval college as a teenager, and honorably served in both the Royal Navy and the newly formed Royal Air Force during the First World War, demonstrating an early commitment to public service.

His public profile began to rise in 1920 when he was created Duke of York. Three years later, in 1923, he married Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, a union that proved to be a cornerstone of the monarchy's stability. Together, they had two daughters, Princess Elizabeth (who would later become Queen Elizabeth II) and Princess Margaret. In the mid-1920s, Albert embarked on speech therapy to manage a debilitating stammer, a personal challenge he grappled with publicly and learned to manage to a considerable degree, showcasing remarkable perseverance. This aspect of his life later gained widespread recognition through the award-winning film "The King's Speech."

Why did Albert become King George VI? His unexpected ascension to the throne occurred in 1936 following a profound constitutional crisis. Upon the death of their father, George V, Albert's elder brother, Edward VIII, became king. However, Edward's reign was exceptionally brief. Later that same year, he controversially abdicated to marry the twice-divorced American socialite Wallis Simpson, a choice deemed incompatible with his role as monarch and Head of the Church of England. This unprecedented event thrust Albert into the limelight; he thereby became the third monarch of the House of Windsor, adopting the regnal name George VI to signify continuity and stability with his father's reign. He was formally crowned at Westminster Abbey on 12 May 1937, the date originally planned for his brother's coronation.

King George VI During World War II and Post-War Transformation

The early years of King George VI's reign were swiftly overshadowed by the ominous clouds of World War II. In September 1939, the British Empire and the majority of Commonwealth countries—with the notable exception of Ireland, which remained neutral—declared war on Nazi Germany. Hostilities extended further with declarations of war against the Kingdom of Italy in 1940 and the Empire of Japan in 1941. Throughout these challenging times, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth emerged as powerful symbols of national resilience and solidarity. They chose to remain in London, notably at Buckingham Palace, even when it was bombed during the Blitz, a decision that deeply resonated with the populace and significantly boosted morale. The King was frequently seen visiting bombed areas, military installations, and industrial centres, sharing the hardships of the common people. His popularity soared as he became widely regarded as a symbol of unwavering British determination to achieve victory. The personal sacrifices extended to his own family, with his younger brother, Prince George, Duke of Kent, tragically killed on active service in 1942, the only member of the British Royal Family to die on active service during World War II.

Britain and its allies ultimately triumphed in 1945, but the war exacted a heavy toll on the British Empire. The post-war era saw a significant decline in imperial power and the acceleration of decolonization. Ireland had largely secured its independence earlier, and this trend continued with the momentous independence of India and Pakistan in August 1947, marking the end of the British Raj. Reflecting this evolving global landscape, King George VI formally relinquished the title of Emperor of India in June 1948, instead adopting the new, forward-looking title of Head of the Commonwealth. This new role underscored the transformation from an empire to a voluntary association of independent nations, a concept he strongly supported and helped to shape.

In the later years of his demanding reign, King George VI was increasingly beset by serious smoking-related health problems, a consequence of the immense pressures and stresses he endured. He sadly died of a coronary thrombosis on 6 February 1952 at Sandringham House, aged 56. His passing marked the end of an era and he was succeeded by his elder daughter, the beloved Elizabeth II, whose own historic reign would span seventy years.

St George's Chapel: A Symbol of Royal History and Faith

St George's Chapel, an architectural marvel nestled within the grounds of Windsor Castle in England, stands as a profound testament to centuries of British royal history and religious devotion. Built in the distinctive late-medieval Perpendicular Gothic style, renowned for its emphasis on verticality, large windows, and intricate fan vaulting, the chapel is both a Royal Peculiar and the cherished Chapel of the Most Noble Order of the Garter.

What is a Royal Peculiar?
A Royal Peculiar is a church or chapel that falls under the direct jurisdiction of the monarch, rather than a bishop or archbishop. This unique status underscores its intimate connection to the Crown.
What is the Order of the Garter?
The Order of the Garter, founded in 1348, is the oldest and most senior order of chivalry in the United Kingdom. Its members, limited to the Sovereign and twenty-four Companions, meet annually at the chapel for a Garter Service, and their elaborate banners are displayed within, creating a vibrant visual history of the order.

The chapel's origins trace back to the 14th century, founded by King Edward III, a period of significant chivalric and architectural ambition. It underwent extensive enlargement and reconstruction in the late 15th century, culminating in the magnificent structure we see today. St George's Chapel is strategically located in the Lower Ward of Windsor Castle, a fortress and royal palace that has been intrinsically linked to the monarchy for nearly 1000 years, serving as a principal residence for successive sovereigns, including Queen Elizabeth II.

Royal Significance and Maintenance

Throughout its long history, St George's Chapel has been the venerable setting for numerous significant royal services, joyous weddings, and solemn burials. In the 19th century, it notably superseded Westminster Abbey as the preferred and chosen burial place for the British royal family, a tradition that continues to this day. Recent notable events include the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex) in 2018, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank in 2018. The chapel has also become the final resting place for many monarchs, including Henry VIII, Charles I, George V, George VI, and more recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and Queen Elizabeth II.

The meticulous running and preservation of this historic chapel fall under the responsibility of the Dean and Canons of Windsor, who collectively constitute the College of St. George. They are ably assisted by a dedicated team including a Clerk, Verger, and various other staff members. To further aid in the crucial task of maintaining the chapel's architectural and historical integrity, the Society of the Friends of St George's and Descendants of the Knights of the Garter, a registered charity, was established in 1931. This organization plays a vital role in supporting the college's ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring St George's Chapel remains a treasured landmark for generations to come.