Assassination Attempt on Queen Victoria by Roderick McLean

On March 2, 1882, Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by Roderick McLean at Windsor. This event marked the last of several attempts on her life during her long reign.

Context

Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 to 1901, was a symbol of stability and continuity during a period of significant change in Britain. Her reign saw the expansion of the British Empire and numerous social and industrial transformations. Despite her popularity, she was the target of multiple assassination attempts, reflecting the political and social tensions of the era.

The Incident

• Location: The attempt took place at Windsor, a royal residence and a frequent location for the Queen’s public appearances.
• Assailant: Roderick McLean, a disgruntled young man, attempted to shoot the Queen as she was leaving Windsor railway station in her carriage.
• Method: McLean fired a pistol at the Queen’s carriage. Fortunately, his aim was poor, and the shot missed its target.
• Intervention: The quick response of two Eton College students, who struck McLean with their umbrellas, helped subdue him until he was arrested by the authorities.

Aftermath

• Trial and Verdict: Roderick McLean was tried for high treason. However, he was found not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to a mental institution.
• Public Reaction: The public was outraged by the verdict, which led to changes in the legal system. The trial highlighted the inadequacies of the existing laws regarding insanity defenses.
• Impact on Legislation: The incident contributed to the passage of the Trial of Lunatics Act 1883, which allowed for a special verdict of “guilty but insane,” ensuring that individuals who posed a danger could be detained indefinitely.

Historical Significance

This assassination attempt underscored the vulnerabilities faced by public figures, even those as revered as Queen Victoria. It also reflected the societal challenges of the time, including mental health issues and the legal system’s capacity to deal with them. The event is a reminder of the persistent threats to political leaders and the evolving nature of legal and public safety measures.

Queen Victoria’s survival of this and other attempts on her life only served to enhance her image as a resilient and enduring monarch, further solidifying her legacy in British history.