George IV of the United Kingdom Facts for Kids

George IV (born George Augustus Frederick on 12 August 1762, died on 26 June 1830) was the king of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and Hanover. He ruled from 29 January 1820 until his death. Before becoming king, he served as "Prince Regent" for nine years, starting in 1811. This period, known as the Regency, included important events like the end of the Napoleonic Wars in Europe.

Early Life of George IV
- Becoming Prince of Wales
George IV as Prince Regent
- Winning the Napoleonic Wars
King George IV's Reign
- His Coronation Day
- Important Changes During His Rule
Legacy of King George IV
Images for kids
See also

Early Life of George IV

George Augustus Frederick was born at St James's Palace in London. He was the first child of King George III and Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz. As the eldest son, he was expected to become king one day.

Becoming Prince of Wales

From birth, George was known as the Prince of Wales. This title is usually given to the heir to the British throne. He was a very talented student, learning to speak several languages. These included French, German, and Italian.

George (left) with his mother Queen Charlotte and younger brother Frederick. Portrait by Allan Ramsay, 1764.

George IV as Prince Regent

In 1811, George's father, King George III, became very ill. Because of this, George was made Prince Regent. This meant he ruled the country in his father's place. This period is called the Regency era.

During the Regency, George lived a grand lifestyle. He was known for his love of fashion, art, and architecture. He spent a lot of money on building projects and collecting beautiful items.

Winning the Napoleonic Wars

A major event during George's time as Prince Regent was the end of the Napoleonic Wars. These were big wars fought across Europe. Britain and its allies finally defeated Napoleon Bonaparte in 1815 at the Battle of Waterloo. This victory made Britain a very powerful nation.

King George IV's Reign

When his father, George III, died in 1820, George officially became King George IV. He was already experienced in ruling the country from his time as Prince Regent.

His Coronation Day

George IV's coronation was a very grand and expensive event. It took place on 19 July 1821. He wanted it to be a magnificent display of royal power and wealth.

George IV's coronation, 19 July 1821.

Important Changes During His Rule

During George IV's reign, several important changes happened in Britain. One key event was the passing of the Catholic Emancipation Act in 1829. This law allowed Catholics to hold public office. Before this, they had faced many restrictions.

George IV also supported the arts and sciences. He helped establish the National Gallery in London. He also contributed to the British Museum and King's College London.

Legacy of King George IV

George IV is remembered for his love of style and his contributions to architecture. He helped shape the look of London with projects like Regent's Park and Regent Street. He also transformed Buckingham Palace into a grand royal residence.

His reign saw Britain become a leading power in Europe. He died on 26 June 1830 at Windsor Castle. His younger brother, William IV, became the next king.

Images for kids

Portrait miniature by Richard Cosway, c. 1780–82
Mezzotint engraving by Samuel William Reynolds, based on a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds, 1785
Miniature by Richard Cosway, 1792
Portrait by Sir William Beechey, 1798
Profile by Sir Thomas Lawrence, c. 1814
Portrait in Garter robes by Lawrence, 1816
George IV at Holyhead en route to Ireland on 7 August 1821, the day of his wife's death
Half-crown of George IV, 1821
Portrait by Sir David Wilkie depicting the King during his 1822 trip to Scotland
"A Voluptuary Under The Horrors of Digestion": 1792 caricature by James Gillray from George's time as Prince of Wales
Statue of George IV in Trafalgar Square, London