Royal History Geeks

"Impossible to carry" - part 7 of our series on the Abdication crisis


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After six weeks of build up, it is finally time to explore the actual Abdication of Edward VIII - the only truly voluntary surrendering of the throne in history.

It this episode, RHG founder Gareth Streeter and Royal commentator, James Taylor explore:

  • The "last supper" where the Prime Minister tries to convince the King to stay but is denied a bed for the night
  • The Duke of York and his last-minute preparations for the crown
  • The Cabinet's rush to prepare the legislation for Abdication
  • Baldwin's surprisingly spectacular Commons performance and the beginnings of the romantic myth of the crisis
  • Queen Mary's subtle sign of support for the government
  • The arrangements for Edward's future including title and income
  • Edward's master piece of a broadcast to the nation

Although Edward has now left the throne, this is not the end of the series.  Next week we shall explore the aftermath.

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Royal History GeeksBy Royal History Geeks