Key monarchs relevant to the Regency period:
- George III (1760–1820)
- Known For: George III is famous for his long reign and bouts of mental illness, often referred to as “madness.”
- Interesting Fact: He lost the American colonies during the Revolutionary War. His illness led to the Regency era, when his son ruled as Prince Regent.
- Prince Regent (George IV) (Regent: 1811–1820, King: 1820–1830)
- Regency Era (1811–1820): During George III’s mental illness, his son, the future George IV, acted as Prince Regent.
- Known For: George IV was notorious for his lavish lifestyle and extravagant spending, which earned him public disdain.
- William IV (1830–1837)
- Known For: Often called the “Sailor King” because of his time in the Royal Navy. His reign saw the passing of the Reform Act of 1832, which expanded voting rights in Britain.
- Victoria (1837–1901)
- Interesting Fact: Though her reign followed the Regency, Queen Victoria was significant as she ushered in the Victorian era, which came to define much of British culture and identity for the 19th century.
Scotland’s Connection:
Scotland and England shared the same monarch after the Union of the Crowns in 1603 under James VI of Scotland (James I of England). Thus, the monarchs during the Regency period were also the rulers of Scotland.
Timeline:
- 1760: George III ascends to the throne.
- 1811: Regency begins under the future George IV due to George III’s illness.
- 1820: George III dies; George IV becomes king.
- 1830: William IV succeeds George IV.
- 1837: Victoria becomes queen, marking the end of the Regency period’s cultural influences.
Fun Fact:
The lavish balls and events of the Regency era were often inspired by Prince Regent’s extravagant taste, which set the tone for high society, especially for young ladies making their social debut.
Susan Walsh - Author 