George IV of the United Kingdom facts for kids
Quick facts for kids George IV |
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King of the United Kingdom and Hanover | |||||
![]() Portrait by Sir Thomas Lawrence, 1822.
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Reign | 29 January 1820 – 26 June 1830 | ||||
Coronation | 19 July 1821 | ||||
Predecessor | George III | ||||
Successor | William IV | ||||
Born | St James's Palace, London, England |
12 August 1762||||
Died | 26 June 1830 Windsor Castle, Windsor, Berkshire, England |
(aged 67)||||
Burial | St George's Chapel | ||||
Spouse | Caroline of Brunswick | ||||
Issue | Princess Charlotte Augusta of Wales | ||||
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House | House of Hanover | ||||
Father | George III | ||||
Mother | Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz |
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.
Contents
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 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.
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
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Portrait miniature by Richard Cosway, c. 1780–82
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Mezzotint engraving by Samuel William Reynolds, based on a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds, 1785
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Miniature by Richard Cosway, 1792
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Portrait by Sir William Beechey, 1798
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Profile by Sir Thomas Lawrence, c. 1814
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Portrait in Garter robes by Lawrence, 1816
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Half-crown of George IV, 1821
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Portrait by Sir David Wilkie depicting the King during his 1822 trip to Scotland
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"A Voluptuary Under The Horrors of Digestion": 1792 caricature by James Gillray from George's time as Prince of Wales
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Statue of George IV in Trafalgar Square, London
See also
In Spanish: Jorge IV del Reino Unido para niños