Queen Victoria Ascends to the British Throne

On June 20, 1837, Queen Victoria ascended to the British throne following the death of her uncle, King William IV. This marked the beginning of a reign that would last over 63 years, making her one of the longest-reigning monarchs in British history.

Context Leading to Her Ascension

Victoria was born on May 24, 1819, to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, and Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. Her father was the fourth son of King George III, and she was fifth in line to the throne at birth. However, a series of deaths in the royal family, including her father and her grandfather, King George III, brought her closer to the throne.

King William IV, Victoria’s uncle, had no legitimate surviving children, making Victoria the heir presumptive. Her upbringing was heavily influenced by her mother and her advisor, Sir John Conroy, under the strict “Kensington System,” which aimed to keep her isolated from the court and under their control.

The Day of Ascension

King William IV passed away in the early hours of June 20, 1837. At the time, Victoria was just 18 years old. She was informed of her uncle’s death and her new role as queen by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Lord Chamberlain at Kensington Palace. Her first act as queen was to request that she be given a room of her own, symbolizing her independence from her mother’s influence.

Significance of Her Reign

Queen Victoria’s reign, known as the Victorian Era, was a period of significant industrial, cultural, political, scientific, and military change within the United Kingdom. It was marked by the expansion of the British Empire, which became the foremost global power of the time.

Key Aspects of Her Reign:

• Industrial Revolution: Her reign saw the continuation and expansion of the Industrial Revolution, which transformed the British economy and society.
• Cultural Flourishing: The Victorian Era was a time of great cultural change, with advancements in literature, art, and science. Figures like Charles Dickens, the Brontë sisters, and Charles Darwin rose to prominence during this time.
• Political Changes: The period saw significant political reforms, including the expansion of the electoral franchise and the rise of the modern two-party system.
• Empire Expansion: The British Empire expanded to its greatest extent, with territories in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.

Aftermath and Legacy

Queen Victoria’s reign ended with her death on January 22, 1901. Her legacy is complex; she is remembered for her role in shaping modern Britain and the British monarchy. Her long reign provided a sense of continuity and stability during a time of rapid change. The Victorian Era left a lasting impact on British society and the world, influencing everything from architecture to social norms.

Queen Victoria’s ascension to the throne on June 20, 1837, was a pivotal moment in British history, setting the stage for an era that would define a century.