George VI

Full Name: Albert Frederick Arthur George
Profession: King of the United Kingdom

Nationality:

Biography: George VI was King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from December 11, 1936, until his death in 1952. He was also the last Emperor of India and the first Head of the Commonwealth.

Born the second son of King George V and Queen Mary, he was not expected to inherit the throne and spent his early life in the shadow of his elder brother, Edward VIII. George VI, known to his family as "Bertie," served in the Royal Navy during World War I and afterwards took on various official tours and duties.

His life changed dramatically when his brother, Edward VIII, abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee. This event thrust George VI into a position for which he was ill-prepared. With the support of his wife, Elizabeth (later known as the Queen Mother), and Prime Minister Winston Churchill, he worked to restore trust in the monarchy.

George VI's reign encompassed the tumultuous era of World War II, where he became a symbol of British determination and resilience. Refusing to leave London during the Blitz, he and Elizabeth famously visited bombed areas in the East End, the docks, and other parts of Britain, boosting public morale. The King's struggle with a stammer, which was an impediment to public speaking, was portrayed in the award-winning film "The King's Speech" (2010).

After the war, his health began to deteriorate, and the stress of the war years took a toll on his health, exacerbated by heavy smoking. He underwent surgery for lung cancer in 1951 and passed away the following year in his sleep at Sandringham House.

George VI was succeeded by his elder daughter, Elizabeth II. His younger daughter was Princess Margaret.

Born: December 14, 1895
Birthplace: York Cottage, Sandringham House, Norfolk, England, United Kingdom

Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: February 6, 1952 (aged 56)
Cause of Death: Coronary thrombosis and lung cancer