Edward VIII

Edward VIII was one of the shortest-reigning monarchs in British history, serving as King from January 20 to December 11, 1936. The eldest son of George V, he was known for his romantic and controversial life. His relationship with Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee, caused a constitutional crisis, leading to his abdication—making him the first British monarch to voluntarily relinquish the throne. His brother, George VI, succeeded him, and Edward was granted the title "Duke of Windsor." In his abdication speech, Edward stated, "I cannot carry out my duties as King without the help of the woman I love." He married Wallis Simpson in 1937 in France, where they later settled. The couple lived abroad, primarily in France and the United States, and rarely returned to Britain.