Matchmaking Royal Marriages: 1900 to 1981

Summary

Royal marriages have transformed from strictly arranged unions to more personal choices, reflecting broader societal changes. Initially, royals married within their ranks, often cousins, to maintain alliances. By the mid-20th century, marrying commoners became more common, and divorce was no longer taboo. This shift mirrored societal changes and the rise of online matchmaking, which now accounts for 20% of relationships. This article delves into the evolution of royal marriages from 1900 to 1981, highlighting key figures and events.

Early 20th Century: Tradition and Alliances

• King Edward VII (1841-1910)

  • Reign: 1901-1910, known as the Edwardian era.
  • Marriage: Alexandra of Denmark in 1863.
  • Context: Marriages were often arranged to strengthen political alliances.

• King George V (1865-1936)

  • Reign: 1910-1936.
  • Marriage: Princess Victoria Mary of Teck in 1893.
  • Relationship: Second cousins once removed.
  • Context: Marriages within the family were common to maintain royal bloodlines.

Mid-20th Century: Change and Controversy

• King Edward VIII (1894-1972)

  • Reign: 1936, abdicated after one year.
  • Marriage: Wallis Simpson, an American socialite, in 1937.
  • Context: His marriage to a twice-divorced woman caused a constitutional crisis, leading to his abdication.

• King George VI (1895-1952)

  • Reign: 1936-1952.
  • Marriage: Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1923.
  • Context: Elizabeth was considered a commoner, marking a shift in royal marriage norms.

Late 20th Century: Modernization and Media

• Queen Elizabeth II (1926-2022)

  • Marriage: Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 1947.
  • Context: Philip was a member of the Greek royal family, exiled as a child.

• Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer

  • Marriage: July 29, 1981, at St. Paul’s Cathedral.
  • Context: The wedding was a global event, watched by 750 million people worldwide (BBC).

Divorce and New Beginnings

• Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles
  • Initial Meeting: 1970 at a polo match.
  • Marriages: Both married others but maintained a long-term relationship.
  • Divorce: Camilla in 1995, Charles and Diana in 1996.
  • Marriage: Charles and Camilla in 2005.
  • Context: Unlike Edward VIII, Charles did not have to abdicate to marry Camilla.

Perspectives on Royal Marriages

• Traditional Viewpoint

  • Marriages were strategic, aimed at strengthening political alliances and maintaining royal bloodlines.
  • Divorce was taboo, and annulments were used if no male heirs were produced.

• Modern Viewpoint

  • Marriages became more personal, with royals marrying for love rather than duty.
  • Divorce became more accepted, reflecting broader societal changes.

The Rise of Online Matchmaking

• Statistics
  • 20% of couples now meet online (Pew Research Center).
  • Online dating has revolutionized how people find partners, offering more choices and convenience.

Conclusion

Royal marriages from 1900 to 1981 reflect broader societal changes, from arranged unions to personal choices. The shift from marrying within royal ranks to commoners, and the acceptance of divorce, mirrors the evolving norms of society. As online matchmaking continues to grow, it will be interesting to see how it influences future royal unions.