George V, King of Great Britain and Ireland

George, the son of Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark, was born June 3 1865 at Marlborough House, London.
He married Victoria Mary (May) daughter of Franz Paul, Duke of Teck and Mary Adelaide, Princes of Cambridge.

George V, when Duke of York, with his
wife and children.

George V succeeded his father, Edward VII, to the throne on May 6th 1910. The coronation took place in Westminster Abbey in June the following year.

Princess Mary, also known and Princes May, was an only daughter and having three brothers to play with she learned to climb trees, play cricket and was regarded as a tomboy. Queen Mary became an avid collector of art and loved the theatre.

In the early part of the First World War, George V adopted the surname name Windsor for himself and his descendants. This was because of anti-German feelings in the country - the King's cousin and enemy being the German emperor.

George V was the first King to broadcast to his people by wireless and this established the tradition of the Annual Christmas message. He also revived the custom of distributing the Royal Maundy money in person.

George V died January 20 1936 at Sandringham House, Norfolk. He was succeeded by his son, Edward VIII.

Queen Mary died March 24 1943 at Marlborough House, London.