Historical Events tagged with "royalty"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Arts & Culture

Presentation of the Cullinan Diamond to King Edward VII

November 9th, 1907 117 years ago

The Cullinan Diamond, the largest gem-quality diamond ever discovered, was presented to King Edward VII of the United Kingdom on his birthday. Discovered in South Africa in 1905, the diamond weighed an astounding 3,106 carats. It was presented as a gift from Sir Thomas Cullinan, the diamond's namesake, as a symbol of loyalty and the deepening relationship between Britain and its colonies. The presentation took place at a ceremony, marking a significant moment in royal history, showcasing both the diamond's beauty and its value in the context of the British Empire.

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Politics & Government

Assassination Attempt on Spanish Royal Couple

May 31st, 1906 118 years ago

King Alfonso XIII of Spain and Queen Victoria Eugenie faced an assassination attempt during their wedding ceremony in Madrid. As the royal couple traveled in a carriage, a bomb was thrown by an anarchist group aiming to kill them. The attack resulted in the deaths of 24 people, with many more injured, while the couple emerged unscathed. The incident highlighted tensions in Spain regarding the monarchy and increasing violence from radical groups.

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Politics & Government

Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark's Coronation

August 9th, 1902 122 years ago

Edward VII and Alexandra of Denmark were crowned as King and Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in Westminster Abbey. This grand ceremony took place in front of a large gathering, signifying the beginning of Edward's reign after the long tenure of his mother, Queen Victoria. The event featured traditional rituals and was marked by a mix of pageantry and public celebration.

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Politics & Government

Prince George Becomes Prince of Wales

November 9th, 1901 123 years ago

Prince George, Duke of Cornwall, officially became the Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, following the death of his father, King Edward VII. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials and representatives of the royal family. The investiture marked a significant moment in the British monarchy, emphasizing the traditions and continuity of royal titles. This transition solidified George's future role as a leader of the United Kingdom.

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Cultural Traditions

State Funeral of Queen Victoria in London

February 2nd, 1901 124 years ago

The funeral of Queen Victoria was a grand state occasion attended by dignitaries from around the world at St. George's Chapel in Windsor. Queen Victoria, who reigned for 63 years, passed away and her body was taken via a ceremonial procession through London. The event was marked by national mourning and attracted immense public attention as thousands lined the streets to pay their respects. The monarch's death marked the end of the Victorian era.

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Politics & Government

Queen Victoria Stricken with Paralysis

January 19th, 1901 124 years ago

Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom suffered a stroke that left her paralyzed. Just three days later, she passed away at the age of 81. The Queen had been a pivotal figure in British history, representing the nation during a period of vast expansion and social change. Her death marked the end of the Victorian era, an influential time characterized by industrial progress and the expansion of the British Empire.

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Crime & Law

Assassination of Empress Elisabeth of Austria

September 10th, 1898 126 years ago

Empress Elisabeth of Austria was assassinated by Luigi Lucheni while she was strolling on the promenade of Lake Geneva. The assassin, a self-proclaimed anarchist, approached her with a sharpened file and inflicted a fatal wound to her heart. Empress Elisabeth, known for her beauty and enigmatic persona, was traveling incognito at the time of the attack. This incident shocked Europe and drew widespread attention, marking a tragic turn in the life of one of its most beloved royals.

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Politics & Government

Queen Victoria Becomes Longest-Reigning Monarch

September 22nd, 1896 128 years ago

Queen Victoria surpassed King George III to become the longest reigning monarch in British history, achieving this milestone on September 22, 1896. This pivotal moment was marked by celebrations across the nation as subjects reflected on her unprecedented reign of nearly 60 years. The Queen's tenure encompassed a period of vast social, political, and industrial change, making her a symbolic figure of the British Empire's expansion. At the time, Victoria was widely revered, and her reign was characterized by a flourishing of arts and a strong national identity that resonated deeply with the populace.

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Politics & Government

Princess Wilhelmina succeeds King William III

November 23rd, 1890 134 years ago

King William III of the Netherlands died without a male heir, prompting the passing of a special law. This legislation enabled his only daughter, Princess Wilhelmina, to become the next monarch. The decision reflects changing views on female succession in monarchy during this era.

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