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