1 00:00:01,952 --> 00:00:04,202 Narrator: This is the story of the british royal family, 2 00:00:04,213 --> 00:00:06,755 Told in color for the first time. 3 00:00:08,551 --> 00:00:10,300 At the end of the 19th century, 4 00:00:10,377 --> 00:00:14,596 Reclusive queen victoria is seen as distant and remote. 5 00:00:16,633 --> 00:00:19,059 Her larger-than-life son, edward vii, 6 00:00:19,136 --> 00:00:23,063 Knows that even kings need to have their public on their side. 7 00:00:24,475 --> 00:00:26,233 And when the country goes to war, 8 00:00:26,310 --> 00:00:28,569 The royals must prove their worth 9 00:00:28,645 --> 00:00:31,363 Or risk the end of the monarchy. 10 00:00:32,983 --> 00:00:36,151 Cameras create the first modern celebrity royal, 11 00:00:36,162 --> 00:00:38,328 Edward viii. 12 00:00:38,405 --> 00:00:40,581 But he nearly destroys the royal family 13 00:00:40,657 --> 00:00:45,169 When he falls in love with his married american mistress. 14 00:00:45,245 --> 00:00:48,088 And still, edward is a tough act to follow 15 00:00:48,165 --> 00:00:52,092 For stammering, shy george vi. 16 00:00:52,303 --> 00:00:54,928 A young, unprepared queen elizabeth 17 00:00:55,005 --> 00:00:56,764 Must continue the dynasty. 18 00:00:58,258 --> 00:01:00,092 This is the story 19 00:01:00,102 --> 00:01:03,261 Of how the royal family survives the early 20th century 20 00:01:03,272 --> 00:01:06,014 As you've never seen it before. 21 00:01:06,025 --> 00:01:09,109 [cheering] 22 00:01:09,195 --> 00:01:16,241 ♪ 23 00:01:21,624 --> 00:01:23,615 Queen elizabeth: ...Shall be devoted to your service... 24 00:01:23,626 --> 00:01:30,631 ♪ 25 00:01:32,218 --> 00:01:34,042 ♪ 26 00:01:34,053 --> 00:01:38,046 Narrator: June 2, 1953. 27 00:01:38,057 --> 00:01:42,184 27-year-old queen elizabeth prepares to be crowned. 28 00:01:44,054 --> 00:01:46,897 As the gold state coach leaves for westminster abbey, 29 00:01:46,974 --> 00:01:49,975 It marks a new, optimistic age for britain. 30 00:01:49,985 --> 00:01:53,654 [cheering] 31 00:01:53,730 --> 00:01:58,659 ♪ 32 00:01:58,735 --> 00:02:02,329 Three million spectators line the route. 33 00:02:02,406 --> 00:02:05,073 Many hold specially-made periscopes 34 00:02:05,084 --> 00:02:09,378 To try and catch a glimpse of their young, glamorous queen. 35 00:02:10,923 --> 00:02:12,589 Arriving at the abbey, 36 00:02:12,666 --> 00:02:16,168 Aristocratic maids of honor, specially chosen for the event, 37 00:02:16,178 --> 00:02:17,928 Assist the queen. 38 00:02:20,391 --> 00:02:22,424 This is the first time in royal history 39 00:02:22,434 --> 00:02:26,353 That a coronation is televised live to the nation. 40 00:02:28,765 --> 00:02:32,609 The archbishop of canterbury places the crown on her head, 41 00:02:32,686 --> 00:02:35,195 Prompting a great shout from the congregation. 42 00:02:35,272 --> 00:02:38,198 Congregation: God save the queen! 43 00:02:38,275 --> 00:02:40,200 God save the queen! 44 00:02:40,411 --> 00:02:43,036 God save the queen! 45 00:02:45,282 --> 00:02:46,456 Narrator: This coronation becomes 46 00:02:46,533 --> 00:02:47,949 One of the most popular moments 47 00:02:47,960 --> 00:02:50,669 In the history of the royal family. 48 00:02:51,964 --> 00:02:54,789 The events leading up to this spectacular ceremony 49 00:02:54,800 --> 00:02:56,875 Are testament to the house of windsor's 50 00:02:56,886 --> 00:03:00,795 Incredible instincts for survival. 51 00:03:00,806 --> 00:03:03,056 [cheering] 52 00:03:03,133 --> 00:03:05,550 The queen will now need to drive the monarchy 53 00:03:05,561 --> 00:03:07,686 Into the modern age. 54 00:03:14,320 --> 00:03:16,236 At the end of the 19th century, 55 00:03:16,447 --> 00:03:21,408 Queen victoria reigns over the whole of the british empire. 56 00:03:21,485 --> 00:03:24,069 This rare footage from 1896 57 00:03:24,079 --> 00:03:27,748 Shows the 77-year-old queen holding her dog turi 58 00:03:27,824 --> 00:03:31,418 At balmoral, her scottish castle. 59 00:03:34,331 --> 00:03:36,498 Since the death of her beloved husband albert 60 00:03:36,508 --> 00:03:38,083 35 years ago, 61 00:03:38,093 --> 00:03:40,344 She has lived in permanent mourning 62 00:03:40,420 --> 00:03:42,971 And wears only black. 63 00:03:45,175 --> 00:03:49,269 This is the first film ever taken of the queen. 64 00:03:49,438 --> 00:03:54,349 Victoria will later watch it for her private amusement. 65 00:03:54,360 --> 00:03:56,443 Walking alongside her carriage, 66 00:03:56,520 --> 00:03:59,437 Her favorite granddaughter, princess alexandra, 67 00:03:59,448 --> 00:04:03,191 And her husband, tsar nicholas ii of russia. 68 00:04:03,202 --> 00:04:05,953 [dog barking] 69 00:04:06,029 --> 00:04:08,789 At this time, the queen has seven children 70 00:04:08,865 --> 00:04:12,125 And 33 grandchildren still alive. 71 00:04:12,202 --> 00:04:14,962 Many have married into europe's royal houses. 72 00:04:18,384 --> 00:04:23,295 But she is reclusive and rarely seen by her subjects. 73 00:04:23,305 --> 00:04:24,805 In the coming century, 74 00:04:24,881 --> 00:04:29,309 The people will expect more from their monarch. 75 00:04:29,386 --> 00:04:30,552 [cannon fires] 76 00:04:30,562 --> 00:04:32,887 January 1901. 77 00:04:32,898 --> 00:04:38,318 The 81-year-old queen dies on the isle of wight. 78 00:04:38,529 --> 00:04:41,905 Her yacht alberta passes a saluting warship 79 00:04:41,982 --> 00:04:45,242 As it transports her body to the mainland. 80 00:04:47,321 --> 00:04:50,747 She is taken to windsor castle. 81 00:04:50,824 --> 00:04:53,667 Surprisingly, after 40 years in black, 82 00:04:53,744 --> 00:04:57,337 She requests that her coffin is draped in bridal white 83 00:04:57,548 --> 00:05:01,550 As she prepares to join her beloved prince albert in death. 84 00:05:03,554 --> 00:05:06,763 Also at her request, and for the first time in royal history, 85 00:05:06,840 --> 00:05:09,975 Her coffin is transported on a gun carriage. 86 00:05:11,937 --> 00:05:15,272 En route, one of the horse's harnesses breaks. 87 00:05:15,349 --> 00:05:17,524 [horse neighing] 88 00:05:17,601 --> 00:05:19,943 So for the last part of the funeral procession, 89 00:05:20,020 --> 00:05:24,281 Sailors take up the reins of the carriage on foot. 90 00:05:24,358 --> 00:05:29,619 This becomes a royal tradition which continues to this day. 91 00:05:29,696 --> 00:05:32,947 Crowds line the streets to pay their respects 92 00:05:32,958 --> 00:05:36,209 To britain's longest serving monarch of 63 years. 93 00:05:36,286 --> 00:05:37,786 [horse neighs] 94 00:05:37,796 --> 00:05:42,382 40 members of royalty walk behind her coffin. 95 00:05:42,459 --> 00:05:44,959 Many are the heads of european countries, 96 00:05:44,970 --> 00:05:48,972 And most are related to victoria. 97 00:05:49,049 --> 00:05:51,633 Directly behind her body, in the brown cape, 98 00:05:51,643 --> 00:05:55,136 Is her son and heir, edward vii. 99 00:05:55,147 --> 00:06:01,059 On his right is her grandson, kaiser wilhelm of germany. 100 00:06:01,070 --> 00:06:05,447 But the linchpin of this enormous royal family has gone. 101 00:06:08,652 --> 00:06:11,411 [cheering] 102 00:06:11,488 --> 00:06:12,987 18 months later, 103 00:06:12,998 --> 00:06:17,417 The gold state coach takes edward to his coronation. 104 00:06:17,494 --> 00:06:19,419 ♪ 105 00:06:19,496 --> 00:06:21,254 Victoria always worried 106 00:06:21,331 --> 00:06:23,924 That edward would not rise to the job. 107 00:06:26,762 --> 00:06:29,346 Edward is known to be larger than life, 108 00:06:29,423 --> 00:06:31,431 With a love of horses, 109 00:06:31,642 --> 00:06:33,433 Pheasant shooting... [bang] 110 00:06:33,510 --> 00:06:35,593 And women, 111 00:06:35,604 --> 00:06:37,104 Even though he is married 112 00:06:37,180 --> 00:06:39,981 To the danish princess, queen alexandra. 113 00:06:44,279 --> 00:06:47,489 Edward invents the modern royal appearance. 114 00:06:50,277 --> 00:06:53,453 On this tour to the industrial northern city of sheffield, 115 00:06:53,530 --> 00:06:55,872 He comes to open the university. 116 00:06:58,585 --> 00:07:00,460 Unlike his mother, queen victoria, 117 00:07:00,629 --> 00:07:02,462 He understands that his public need 118 00:07:02,539 --> 00:07:07,125 The theatre and spectacle of royalty. 119 00:07:07,136 --> 00:07:10,470 But he wields little actual power. 120 00:07:10,547 --> 00:07:14,474 The country is run by the government and parliament. 121 00:07:14,551 --> 00:07:20,897 He is a constitutional monarch who reigns but does not rule. 122 00:07:20,974 --> 00:07:25,894 Many of his european family have more political clout. 123 00:07:25,904 --> 00:07:29,239 His nephew nicholas, tsar of all the russias, 124 00:07:29,316 --> 00:07:32,484 Is from a long line of autocrats. 125 00:07:32,494 --> 00:07:35,069 His other nephew, kaiser wilhelm of germany, 126 00:07:35,080 --> 00:07:38,623 Has complete control over the german military. 127 00:07:42,504 --> 00:07:45,922 Still, when the king goes to paris in 1903, 128 00:07:45,999 --> 00:07:49,968 He has an important role to play as the public face of britain. 129 00:07:53,256 --> 00:07:55,682 The british prime minister arthur balfour 130 00:07:55,759 --> 00:07:59,519 Wants to improve tense relations with France. 131 00:07:59,730 --> 00:08:03,523 But when edward is invited there on an official state visit, 132 00:08:03,600 --> 00:08:05,525 He charms them. 133 00:08:05,694 --> 00:08:09,771 Crowds gather and cheer him as he rides through the capital. 134 00:08:09,781 --> 00:08:14,034 This visit paves the way for a series of treaties. 135 00:08:14,110 --> 00:08:17,537 Britain becomes an official ally of France. 136 00:08:17,748 --> 00:08:19,956 The king now has a new name: 137 00:08:20,033 --> 00:08:22,042 Edward the peacemaker. 138 00:08:24,538 --> 00:08:26,213 [bottle shatters] 139 00:08:26,289 --> 00:08:29,716 The peacemaker is also the head of the world's largest navy. 140 00:08:30,877 --> 00:08:36,556 In 1906, he launches hms dreadnought in portsmouth. 141 00:08:36,767 --> 00:08:40,810 It's the fastest battleship to date. 142 00:08:40,887 --> 00:08:44,898 This launch spurs edward's envious nephew wilhelm 143 00:08:44,975 --> 00:08:47,901 To create a navy that rivals britain's. 144 00:08:49,738 --> 00:08:54,824 Tensions mount as britain and germany engage in an arms race. 145 00:08:58,247 --> 00:08:59,821 [cannon fires] 146 00:08:59,831 --> 00:09:03,658 In 1909, king edward assembles the splendor of the navy 147 00:09:03,669 --> 00:09:05,585 Just off the isle of wight 148 00:09:05,712 --> 00:09:07,587 To welcome rare guests, 149 00:09:07,664 --> 00:09:10,840 The russian royal family. 150 00:09:10,917 --> 00:09:15,595 It's regatta week, the height of the social season. 151 00:09:15,672 --> 00:09:17,088 In this rare footage, 152 00:09:17,099 --> 00:09:19,841 The tsar and tsarina and their four daughters 153 00:09:19,851 --> 00:09:24,104 Line up to greet auntie alex and uncle edward. 154 00:09:24,180 --> 00:09:25,939 These are some of the few images 155 00:09:26,016 --> 00:09:28,349 Of the british and russian royal families 156 00:09:28,360 --> 00:09:29,818 Together in britain. 157 00:09:32,739 --> 00:09:34,948 But this is also a state visit. 158 00:09:35,025 --> 00:09:37,951 Russia is now britain's official ally. 159 00:09:38,028 --> 00:09:42,530 Tsar nicholas and alexandra lead their children onto british soil 160 00:09:42,541 --> 00:09:44,782 For the first time. 161 00:09:44,793 --> 00:09:47,035 It will also be their last. 162 00:09:49,873 --> 00:09:52,457 Edward vii's nephew kaiser wilhelm 163 00:09:52,467 --> 00:09:54,801 Has always had a difficult relationship 164 00:09:54,878 --> 00:09:57,137 With his british royal relatives. 165 00:09:59,766 --> 00:10:02,225 His mother was princess victoria, 166 00:10:02,302 --> 00:10:06,396 Queen victoria's eldest child. 167 00:10:06,473 --> 00:10:08,398 He has a love-hate relationship with britain 168 00:10:08,475 --> 00:10:11,318 Which stems back to his childhood. 169 00:10:11,394 --> 00:10:15,071 His left arm hangs 6 inches shorter than his right, 170 00:10:15,148 --> 00:10:18,232 The result of a breach birth. 171 00:10:18,243 --> 00:10:20,985 Wilhelm blames his mother's english doctor 172 00:10:20,996 --> 00:10:24,155 For his disability. 173 00:10:24,166 --> 00:10:27,500 To disguise it, he often holds a sword in public 174 00:10:27,577 --> 00:10:30,670 To make his arm seem longer. 175 00:10:30,797 --> 00:10:35,675 His british family find him pompous and arrogant, 176 00:10:35,886 --> 00:10:37,752 But uncle edward manages to keep the peace 177 00:10:37,763 --> 00:10:39,804 Between the two families. 178 00:10:44,427 --> 00:10:47,687 [bell tolling] 179 00:10:47,773 --> 00:10:49,022 1910. 180 00:10:49,099 --> 00:10:52,108 King edward vii, "the uncle of europe," 181 00:10:52,185 --> 00:10:57,364 Dies of a heart attack after nine short years on the throne. 182 00:10:57,440 --> 00:11:00,617 His funeral is the largest gathering of european royalty 183 00:11:00,694 --> 00:11:02,193 Ever seen-- 184 00:11:02,204 --> 00:11:04,788 Bigger even than his mother's. 185 00:11:06,708 --> 00:11:10,710 The roll call includes the kings of norway, greece, Spain, 186 00:11:10,879 --> 00:11:14,205 Denmark, portugal, and bulgaria. 187 00:11:17,043 --> 00:11:18,885 Former president theodore roosevelt 188 00:11:18,962 --> 00:11:21,221 Also walks in the procession. 189 00:11:23,475 --> 00:11:26,718 The chief mourners directly behind edward's coffin 190 00:11:26,728 --> 00:11:29,562 Are the new king george v 191 00:11:29,639 --> 00:11:30,814 And kaiser wilhelm. 192 00:11:30,890 --> 00:11:33,233 [horse neighs] 193 00:11:33,309 --> 00:11:35,652 No one here knows that this is one of the last times 194 00:11:35,729 --> 00:11:38,363 These royal families will all be together. 195 00:11:41,735 --> 00:11:43,410 In just four years, 196 00:11:43,486 --> 00:11:46,788 Their monarchies will be thrown into war. 197 00:11:53,338 --> 00:11:55,663 [cheering] 198 00:11:55,674 --> 00:12:00,260 In June 1911, king george v and his wife, queen mary, 199 00:12:00,336 --> 00:12:02,170 Welcome the crowds at buckingham palace 200 00:12:02,180 --> 00:12:05,682 After their coronation. 201 00:12:05,759 --> 00:12:09,510 George is known as cautious and conservative. 202 00:12:09,521 --> 00:12:12,346 And mary does not believe that it is appropriate 203 00:12:12,357 --> 00:12:14,941 For royalty to smile in public. 204 00:12:16,778 --> 00:12:18,194 George has served in the navy, 205 00:12:18,271 --> 00:12:22,365 And runs family life in the same way he'd run a ship. 206 00:12:22,442 --> 00:12:26,202 Here his children play at being sailors. 207 00:12:26,279 --> 00:12:29,947 Practicing his rifle drill is his eldest son and heir, 208 00:12:29,958 --> 00:12:31,624 Edward, 209 00:12:31,701 --> 00:12:35,036 Known in the family as david, one of his middle names. 210 00:12:35,046 --> 00:12:37,371 Alongside him is his brother bertie 211 00:12:37,382 --> 00:12:40,550 And sister mary brandishing a sword. 212 00:12:42,629 --> 00:12:48,141 In george's reign, the social order is changing. 213 00:12:48,218 --> 00:12:50,560 Working people are becoming more vocal, 214 00:12:50,637 --> 00:12:54,222 Demanding their rights. 215 00:12:54,232 --> 00:12:56,816 A flash point is the suffragettes' campaign, 216 00:12:57,027 --> 00:12:58,526 "votes for women." 217 00:13:00,396 --> 00:13:02,822 One of their most daring publicity stunts 218 00:13:02,899 --> 00:13:08,402 Will involve the king at the 1913 epsom derby. 219 00:13:08,413 --> 00:13:12,323 Famously, this moment is captured on film. 220 00:13:12,334 --> 00:13:15,168 As the race reaches tattenham corner, 221 00:13:15,245 --> 00:13:17,995 Emily davison steps in front of anmer, 222 00:13:18,006 --> 00:13:20,840 The horse owned by the king. 223 00:13:20,917 --> 00:13:22,759 [horse neighs] 224 00:13:22,836 --> 00:13:26,671 The horse survives, but emily is killed. 225 00:13:26,681 --> 00:13:30,258 No one knows exactly what emily's motives are. 226 00:13:30,268 --> 00:13:32,101 Some speculate that she merely wanted to tie 227 00:13:32,178 --> 00:13:35,438 The suffragette colors to the horse. 228 00:13:35,515 --> 00:13:38,274 Others see it as an act of martyrdom. 229 00:13:42,188 --> 00:13:45,365 The suffragettes are front-page news. 230 00:13:48,945 --> 00:13:53,197 A year later, 200 of them March on buckingham palace 231 00:13:53,208 --> 00:13:55,458 To present a petition to the king. 232 00:13:57,879 --> 00:14:01,297 67 are arrested. 233 00:14:01,374 --> 00:14:04,458 George never publicly responds. 234 00:14:04,469 --> 00:14:08,137 As king, he is expected to be impartial in politics. 235 00:14:10,967 --> 00:14:14,227 But some matters cannot be ignored. 236 00:14:14,304 --> 00:14:19,065 In germany, the war machine is gathering pace. 237 00:14:19,142 --> 00:14:22,986 Even so, in 1913, george attends the family wedding 238 00:14:23,062 --> 00:14:26,573 Of the kaiser's daughter in berlin. 239 00:14:26,649 --> 00:14:29,409 George even wears an honorary german uniform, 240 00:14:29,485 --> 00:14:33,663 Including a spiked helmet called a pickelhaube. 241 00:14:36,501 --> 00:14:38,918 This family occasion is the last time 242 00:14:39,129 --> 00:14:41,588 The cousins will ever see each other. 243 00:14:47,086 --> 00:14:48,928 [cannon fires] 244 00:14:49,097 --> 00:14:50,930 Just a year later, 245 00:14:51,007 --> 00:14:53,725 Britain declares war on germany. 246 00:14:56,104 --> 00:14:58,354 Civilians are encouraged to enlist 247 00:14:58,431 --> 00:15:00,523 And defend king and country. 248 00:15:03,278 --> 00:15:07,113 In newcastle, king george inspects the shipyards 249 00:15:07,190 --> 00:15:09,532 That are building britain's war fleet. 250 00:15:12,078 --> 00:15:13,953 These images become a vital part 251 00:15:14,030 --> 00:15:17,290 Of george and mary's morale-boosting propaganda 252 00:15:17,367 --> 00:15:20,960 And appear in cinemas across britain. 253 00:15:21,037 --> 00:15:25,965 George makes more public visits than any previous monarch, 254 00:15:26,042 --> 00:15:28,376 Including trips to front-line France, 255 00:15:28,386 --> 00:15:30,136 Where he rides a supply train 256 00:15:30,213 --> 00:15:33,056 To see the battlefields of the somme. 257 00:15:35,885 --> 00:15:38,978 Over a million men are killed or wounded here 258 00:15:39,055 --> 00:15:41,940 In this fight with his cousin's army. 259 00:15:44,560 --> 00:15:46,986 George and mary also visit field stations 260 00:15:47,113 --> 00:15:48,896 Behind the front line, 261 00:15:48,907 --> 00:15:53,067 Including this american one in étaples. 262 00:15:53,078 --> 00:15:54,661 They see it as their duty 263 00:15:54,737 --> 00:15:57,330 To visit the troops fighting in their name. 264 00:16:00,168 --> 00:16:03,327 The king understands that the monarchy must be seen 265 00:16:03,338 --> 00:16:07,006 As serving the people. 266 00:16:07,217 --> 00:16:09,083 Their traditional right to rule 267 00:16:09,094 --> 00:16:11,928 Is not enough in the 20th century. 268 00:16:14,590 --> 00:16:17,517 The royal family must adapt 269 00:16:17,593 --> 00:16:19,227 Or die. 270 00:16:22,849 --> 00:16:25,274 George's heir, 20-year-old david, 271 00:16:25,351 --> 00:16:27,268 Joins the grenadier guards 272 00:16:27,278 --> 00:16:30,855 And is allowed to be posted to the western front. 273 00:16:30,865 --> 00:16:33,366 But he is kept back from the front line, 274 00:16:33,443 --> 00:16:36,536 Much to his frustration. 275 00:16:36,612 --> 00:16:41,040 George's second son, bertie, is already in the navy. 276 00:16:41,251 --> 00:16:44,785 Unlike his brother, he will see the fighting first-hand 277 00:16:44,796 --> 00:16:46,754 In the battle of jutland. 278 00:16:48,374 --> 00:16:50,791 Three years into the brutal war, 279 00:16:50,802 --> 00:16:54,053 The germans deploy a new long-range plane, 280 00:16:54,139 --> 00:16:55,379 The gotha bomber. 281 00:16:58,217 --> 00:17:01,436 They begin bombing raids on british towns. 282 00:17:02,889 --> 00:17:05,064 In June in the east end of london, 283 00:17:05,233 --> 00:17:08,901 Gotha bombers kill 162 people, 284 00:17:08,978 --> 00:17:12,396 Including 18 children. 285 00:17:12,407 --> 00:17:17,234 The name has an unfortunate resonance for the royals 286 00:17:17,245 --> 00:17:22,123 Because the family name is saxe coburg gotha. 287 00:17:23,993 --> 00:17:27,253 It's inherited from queen victoria's german husband, 288 00:17:27,330 --> 00:17:29,580 Prince albert. 289 00:17:29,591 --> 00:17:34,168 In an anti-german atmosphere, that's a huge disadvantage. 290 00:17:34,179 --> 00:17:38,923 George is right to worry about public opinion. 291 00:17:38,933 --> 00:17:41,008 On the 15th of March 1917, 292 00:17:41,019 --> 00:17:45,980 His russian cousin tsar nicholas is overthrown in a revolution. 293 00:17:50,862 --> 00:17:54,030 Concerned by republican sentiments at home, 294 00:17:54,107 --> 00:17:56,857 George comes up with a radical solution-- 295 00:17:56,868 --> 00:18:01,204 A rebranding exercise inspired by one of their family homes. 296 00:18:03,199 --> 00:18:05,041 He changes their family name 297 00:18:05,118 --> 00:18:06,617 To the more british-sounding 298 00:18:06,628 --> 00:18:08,127 "windsor." 299 00:18:10,123 --> 00:18:11,205 Worried that britain 300 00:18:11,216 --> 00:18:13,132 Could one day have its own revolution, 301 00:18:13,259 --> 00:18:14,542 He refuses asylum 302 00:18:14,552 --> 00:18:17,136 To his cousin nicholas and his family. 303 00:18:19,307 --> 00:18:22,383 In July 1918, in siberia, 304 00:18:22,393 --> 00:18:25,228 They are herded into a basement and shot. 305 00:18:25,304 --> 00:18:27,146 [gunshot] 306 00:18:27,223 --> 00:18:32,151 [cheering] 307 00:18:32,278 --> 00:18:35,646 Just a few months later, in November 1918, 308 00:18:35,657 --> 00:18:40,159 The allied countries sign an armistice. 309 00:18:40,370 --> 00:18:43,162 People rejoice in america, 310 00:18:43,239 --> 00:18:46,165 France, 311 00:18:46,334 --> 00:18:48,000 And britain. 312 00:18:49,328 --> 00:18:51,587 At st. Paul's cathedral in london, 313 00:18:51,664 --> 00:18:54,799 George and mary attend a service of celebration. 314 00:18:58,513 --> 00:19:02,598 George's defeated cousin, kaiser wilhelm, abdicates 315 00:19:02,675 --> 00:19:05,184 And spends the rest of his days gardening, 316 00:19:05,261 --> 00:19:07,812 Exiled in the netherlands. 317 00:19:09,098 --> 00:19:12,942 The once mighty german empire no longer exists. 318 00:19:15,188 --> 00:19:18,781 The russian and austro-hungarian royal families also fall. 319 00:19:25,456 --> 00:19:30,117 George is one of the few great monarchs to survive. 320 00:19:30,128 --> 00:19:33,212 In peacetime, george and mary continue to meet people 321 00:19:33,298 --> 00:19:35,798 Up and down the country. 322 00:19:35,875 --> 00:19:39,802 They are determined to stay at the center of national life. 323 00:19:42,473 --> 00:19:45,049 George opens the gates of buckingham palace 324 00:19:45,059 --> 00:19:47,894 For his annual royal garden parties, 325 00:19:47,970 --> 00:19:52,732 Filmed here for the first time in 1935. 326 00:19:52,808 --> 00:19:56,235 Also on display is the next generation of royals, 327 00:19:56,321 --> 00:19:59,906 Including his heir, david. 328 00:19:59,982 --> 00:20:03,409 ♪ 329 00:20:03,486 --> 00:20:07,905 David is a prince who embraces all things modern, 330 00:20:07,916 --> 00:20:10,166 Even learning to fly his own plane. 331 00:20:10,243 --> 00:20:14,078 ♪ 332 00:20:14,088 --> 00:20:17,256 He prefers more casual dress to his father, 333 00:20:17,333 --> 00:20:19,217 Particularly when in public. 334 00:20:21,346 --> 00:20:23,095 When he visits glasgow, 335 00:20:23,172 --> 00:20:26,098 He's not afraid to rub shoulders with his subjects. 336 00:20:29,428 --> 00:20:31,595 His parents, king george and queen mary, 337 00:20:31,606 --> 00:20:34,690 Send him all around the country on official duties. 338 00:20:37,278 --> 00:20:39,278 On the third of July 1933, 339 00:20:39,405 --> 00:20:45,025 He opens a record three bridges in west london in one afternoon. 340 00:20:45,036 --> 00:20:47,703 Edward: I'm just about to cut a ribbon 341 00:20:47,780 --> 00:20:50,122 Of this hampton court bridge. 342 00:20:50,199 --> 00:20:53,292 I might add that it is lucky it has only just been put up 343 00:20:53,503 --> 00:20:54,627 Because I have crossed this bridge 344 00:20:54,704 --> 00:20:57,037 No less than ten times already. 345 00:20:59,875 --> 00:21:01,792 Narrator: George's second son, bertie, 346 00:21:01,803 --> 00:21:04,136 Also plays his part in public life, 347 00:21:04,213 --> 00:21:06,547 Inspecting troops and attending openings 348 00:21:06,557 --> 00:21:09,800 On his father's behalf. 349 00:21:09,811 --> 00:21:12,144 But unlike his older brother david, 350 00:21:12,221 --> 00:21:13,637 He is painfully shy 351 00:21:13,648 --> 00:21:15,815 And has a debilitating stammer. 352 00:21:17,652 --> 00:21:19,402 Bertie: And we are all... 353 00:21:23,232 --> 00:21:25,983 Happy to feel... 354 00:21:25,994 --> 00:21:27,326 That... 355 00:21:27,495 --> 00:21:30,371 That the generosity of his majesty... 356 00:21:34,577 --> 00:21:37,670 Has set an example to all... 357 00:21:37,747 --> 00:21:41,340 And which has been widely followed... 358 00:21:41,509 --> 00:21:43,092 Throughout the country. 359 00:21:45,430 --> 00:21:47,346 Narrator: In 1923, 360 00:21:47,557 --> 00:21:50,341 Bertie marries elizabeth bowes lyon, 361 00:21:50,351 --> 00:21:53,260 The daughter of a scottish earl. 362 00:21:53,271 --> 00:21:54,937 Unlike queen mary, 363 00:21:55,014 --> 00:21:59,525 Bertie's bride believes royals should smile in public. 364 00:21:59,602 --> 00:22:02,603 She is nicknamed "the smiling duchess." 365 00:22:05,441 --> 00:22:08,367 In 1926, they have their first daughter, 366 00:22:08,444 --> 00:22:09,777 Princess elizabeth, 367 00:22:09,787 --> 00:22:11,704 Seen here with her nanny... 368 00:22:13,199 --> 00:22:15,532 Followed by princess margaret rose 369 00:22:15,543 --> 00:22:18,786 Four years later. 370 00:22:18,796 --> 00:22:21,130 The family settle down in central london, 371 00:22:21,207 --> 00:22:22,631 In piccadilly. 372 00:22:25,211 --> 00:22:30,214 Their next-door neighbor is socialite rosie newman. 373 00:22:30,224 --> 00:22:31,474 In 1936, 374 00:22:31,550 --> 00:22:33,392 She captures 10-year-old elizabeth 375 00:22:33,519 --> 00:22:34,894 And 5-year-old margaret 376 00:22:34,970 --> 00:22:39,398 Playing with their pet corgis, dookie and jane. 377 00:22:39,475 --> 00:22:41,392 No one yet realizes 378 00:22:41,402 --> 00:22:43,903 The vital role princess elizabeth will play 379 00:22:43,979 --> 00:22:46,814 In the survival of the house of windsor. 380 00:22:49,652 --> 00:22:52,411 [ship horn blows] 381 00:22:52,538 --> 00:22:55,414 29th of August 1924. 382 00:22:55,583 --> 00:22:57,157 As prince of wales, 383 00:22:57,168 --> 00:22:59,335 David travels the world in the king's name, 384 00:22:59,412 --> 00:23:03,080 As an ambassador for britain and the empire. 385 00:23:03,091 --> 00:23:06,425 He draws enormous crowds wherever he goes, 386 00:23:06,502 --> 00:23:08,344 Like here in new york. 387 00:23:11,924 --> 00:23:16,018 He is the first royal to visit a rodeo in america 388 00:23:16,095 --> 00:23:19,105 And even tries his hand at being a cowboy. 389 00:23:25,104 --> 00:23:28,781 During the last part of his stay at this long island estate, 390 00:23:28,858 --> 00:23:31,859 He invites the newsreels in for a private audience, 391 00:23:31,869 --> 00:23:35,871 In a way that no royal has previously allowed. 392 00:23:37,783 --> 00:23:40,209 David is clearly at ease with the media 393 00:23:40,286 --> 00:23:43,620 And becomes the most photographed man in the world. 394 00:23:46,634 --> 00:23:49,468 Even though he's just 5'7" tall, 395 00:23:49,637 --> 00:23:52,054 He cuts a dashing figure. 396 00:23:52,131 --> 00:23:56,892 He's known for his stylish suits in prince of wales check. 397 00:23:56,969 --> 00:24:01,272 For a royal, a red tie is a bold statement. 398 00:24:02,725 --> 00:24:06,393 David is a wildly popular trendsetter, 399 00:24:06,404 --> 00:24:12,065 But his father, george v, sees him as immature and spoilt. 400 00:24:12,076 --> 00:24:13,734 What particularly upsets him 401 00:24:13,744 --> 00:24:17,580 Is david's preference for married women. 402 00:24:17,656 --> 00:24:18,739 [gunshot] 403 00:24:18,749 --> 00:24:20,166 Announcer: They're off. 404 00:24:20,242 --> 00:24:23,169 [cheering] 405 00:24:23,245 --> 00:24:26,413 Narrator: When he's filmed at the grand national in 1935, 406 00:24:26,424 --> 00:24:27,748 The cameras are unaware 407 00:24:27,758 --> 00:24:31,251 That the woman next to him is his mistress, 408 00:24:31,262 --> 00:24:35,514 The married american wallis simpson. 409 00:24:35,591 --> 00:24:37,933 Wallis is a baltimore debutante, 410 00:24:38,010 --> 00:24:40,936 The society "it girl" of her day. 411 00:24:41,013 --> 00:24:44,515 She's on her second marriage to ernest simpson, 412 00:24:44,525 --> 00:24:47,443 A shipbroker and former soldier. 413 00:24:47,520 --> 00:24:50,196 But edward and wallis are soon inseparable 414 00:24:50,272 --> 00:24:54,608 And openly vacation together in austria. 415 00:24:54,619 --> 00:24:56,368 The royal family are shocked 416 00:24:56,445 --> 00:25:00,030 That david flaunts his unsuitable married mistress 417 00:25:00,041 --> 00:25:01,373 In public. 418 00:25:01,450 --> 00:25:05,044 His father george v predicts, "after I am dead, 419 00:25:05,120 --> 00:25:08,589 The boy will ruin himself in twelve months." 420 00:25:10,543 --> 00:25:15,295 [fanfare plays] 421 00:25:15,306 --> 00:25:16,972 In may 1935, 422 00:25:17,049 --> 00:25:19,725 Britain celebrates george's silver jubilee 423 00:25:19,802 --> 00:25:21,560 Of 25 years on the throne. 424 00:25:21,637 --> 00:25:24,054 [fanfare] 425 00:25:24,065 --> 00:25:26,390 At the end of the celebrations, 426 00:25:26,400 --> 00:25:27,641 He addresses his nation 427 00:25:27,652 --> 00:25:30,569 In a new medium for the royal family-- 428 00:25:30,655 --> 00:25:32,145 Radio. 429 00:25:32,156 --> 00:25:36,575 King george: Thank you from the depths of our hearts, 430 00:25:36,786 --> 00:25:38,986 For all the loyalty, 431 00:25:38,996 --> 00:25:42,573 And, may I say, the love 432 00:25:42,583 --> 00:25:47,494 With which this day and always 433 00:25:47,505 --> 00:25:50,998 You have surrounded us. 434 00:25:51,008 --> 00:25:53,008 Narrator: George has survived the war 435 00:25:53,085 --> 00:25:55,594 And the collapse of his royal cousins. 436 00:25:55,671 --> 00:25:59,139 The windsors are now more popular than ever before. 437 00:26:02,853 --> 00:26:05,095 In January 1936, 438 00:26:05,106 --> 00:26:08,765 The news breaks that the king is seriously ill. 439 00:26:08,776 --> 00:26:10,526 A lifetime of smoking 440 00:26:10,603 --> 00:26:14,029 Has given him trouble with his lungs. 441 00:26:14,106 --> 00:26:16,282 The king dies in sandringham, 442 00:26:16,358 --> 00:26:18,909 His estate in the east of England. 443 00:26:21,622 --> 00:26:26,533 [fanfare plays] 444 00:26:26,544 --> 00:26:28,961 January 21, 1936. 445 00:26:29,038 --> 00:26:31,204 St. James's palace, london. 446 00:26:31,215 --> 00:26:33,632 The day after the king's death. 447 00:26:33,709 --> 00:26:36,043 The garter principal king of arms 448 00:26:36,053 --> 00:26:38,962 Formally announces the new king's accession. 449 00:26:38,973 --> 00:26:40,639 Man: God save the king. 450 00:26:40,850 --> 00:26:43,216 [cannon fires] 451 00:26:43,227 --> 00:26:46,803 Narrator: David is now edward viii. 452 00:26:46,814 --> 00:26:48,647 He should be privately mourning, 453 00:26:48,724 --> 00:26:50,649 But instead flies in from sandringham 454 00:26:50,726 --> 00:26:53,226 To watch the ceremony. 455 00:26:53,237 --> 00:26:55,654 This breaks with royal protocol 456 00:26:55,740 --> 00:26:58,324 And is seen as tasteless. 457 00:26:58,400 --> 00:27:00,993 But what really upsets the royal family 458 00:27:01,070 --> 00:27:04,237 Is that wallis is at the window, too. 459 00:27:04,248 --> 00:27:07,583 Edward bans the footage from being shown. 460 00:27:10,421 --> 00:27:14,173 But the public welcome their dashing new king. 461 00:27:14,249 --> 00:27:15,916 News announcer: Even before westminster abbey 462 00:27:15,926 --> 00:27:18,344 Is closed to receive its coronation threads, 463 00:27:18,420 --> 00:27:22,255 The wheels of british industry are spinning at top speed. 464 00:27:22,266 --> 00:27:24,350 Narrator: The country prepares for the coronation 465 00:27:24,426 --> 00:27:29,188 Of what promises to be the most popular king in living memory. 466 00:27:29,264 --> 00:27:32,691 Factories begin to make souvenirs. 467 00:27:32,777 --> 00:27:37,488 The ceremony is set for a year later, in may 1937. 468 00:27:38,524 --> 00:27:41,525 But edward viii has little interest, 469 00:27:41,535 --> 00:27:45,946 Leaving his brother bertie to organize the details. 470 00:27:45,956 --> 00:27:48,707 Instead he goes on a series of vacations, 471 00:27:48,784 --> 00:27:51,710 Including this one to cannes, in the south of France, 472 00:27:51,796 --> 00:27:53,879 With the still-married wallis. 473 00:27:55,791 --> 00:27:57,383 Later that summer, 474 00:27:57,459 --> 00:28:02,379 A photographer catches wallis touching his arm. 475 00:28:02,390 --> 00:28:06,016 The american media realize they are more than friends. 476 00:28:08,145 --> 00:28:10,813 But while the british press cover the holiday, 477 00:28:10,889 --> 00:28:13,899 They print nothing about the affair. 478 00:28:13,976 --> 00:28:16,568 A gentleman's agreement with the palace 479 00:28:16,645 --> 00:28:19,405 Keeps edward's secret. 480 00:28:19,481 --> 00:28:21,732 But in October 1936, 481 00:28:21,742 --> 00:28:24,243 Wallis files for divorce. 482 00:28:24,319 --> 00:28:27,329 Behind closed doors, edward meets with the government 483 00:28:27,406 --> 00:28:31,074 And tells them that he plans to marry her, 484 00:28:31,085 --> 00:28:32,659 Even though the church of England, 485 00:28:32,670 --> 00:28:34,327 Of which edward is the head, 486 00:28:34,338 --> 00:28:38,165 Does not allow divorced people to remarry. 487 00:28:38,175 --> 00:28:39,916 Prime minister stanley baldwin 488 00:28:39,927 --> 00:28:44,263 Tells him that his choice of bride is impossible 489 00:28:44,339 --> 00:28:46,390 If he wants to remain king. 490 00:28:48,686 --> 00:28:51,344 As edward tours south wales in November, 491 00:28:51,355 --> 00:28:53,430 Meeting impoverished welsh families, 492 00:28:53,441 --> 00:28:56,275 His popularity is at an all-time high. 493 00:28:58,362 --> 00:29:00,854 No one in the crowd has any idea 494 00:29:00,865 --> 00:29:03,574 That the monarchy is in crisis... 495 00:29:05,870 --> 00:29:06,860 Even though in america, 496 00:29:06,871 --> 00:29:08,787 The press loudly speculate 497 00:29:08,914 --> 00:29:10,706 On a royal wedding date. 498 00:29:11,867 --> 00:29:13,450 Back in london, 499 00:29:13,461 --> 00:29:16,754 The prime minister still refuses to support the marriage. 500 00:29:19,216 --> 00:29:21,208 Finally on the 2nd of December, 501 00:29:21,218 --> 00:29:24,878 The british press run the story. 502 00:29:24,889 --> 00:29:26,630 The opinion of the country 503 00:29:26,640 --> 00:29:28,307 Is divided. 504 00:29:28,383 --> 00:29:31,810 It's the biggest crisis since world war I. 505 00:29:33,388 --> 00:29:35,731 Man: In my opinion, the king should marry who he loves. 506 00:29:35,808 --> 00:29:37,816 He's been a good chap to the working class. 507 00:29:37,893 --> 00:29:40,644 That's my opinion of him. 508 00:29:40,654 --> 00:29:42,821 Man: Quite apart from the fact that she isn't of noble blood, 509 00:29:42,907 --> 00:29:45,398 Mrs. Simpson has twice been in the divorce courts. 510 00:29:45,409 --> 00:29:46,825 To my mind, 511 00:29:46,902 --> 00:29:48,994 That completely rules her out as queen of England. 512 00:29:49,071 --> 00:29:51,571 Man: The nation is behind him, 513 00:29:51,582 --> 00:29:53,749 And we must not lose him. 514 00:29:55,836 --> 00:29:58,504 Narrator: 10th of December 1936, 515 00:29:58,580 --> 00:30:02,332 Edward officially abdicates his throne. 516 00:30:02,343 --> 00:30:05,385 A day later, he publicly renounces his title. 517 00:30:06,839 --> 00:30:09,756 Edward: A few hours ago, 518 00:30:09,767 --> 00:30:15,846 I discharged my last duty as king and emperor. 519 00:30:15,856 --> 00:30:19,933 Believe me when I tell you 520 00:30:19,944 --> 00:30:22,694 That I have found it impossible 521 00:30:22,771 --> 00:30:27,032 To carry the heavy burden of responsibility 522 00:30:27,109 --> 00:30:30,861 And to discharge my duties as king 523 00:30:30,871 --> 00:30:33,789 As I would wish to do, 524 00:30:33,866 --> 00:30:39,253 Without the help and support of the woman I love. 525 00:30:43,884 --> 00:30:46,543 Narrator: Crowds converge on central london, 526 00:30:46,554 --> 00:30:49,847 Shocked that their beloved king has gone. 527 00:30:56,897 --> 00:30:58,897 [fanfare plays] 528 00:30:59,024 --> 00:31:00,640 Five months later, 529 00:31:00,651 --> 00:31:03,393 Stammering and unprepared brother bertie 530 00:31:03,404 --> 00:31:06,313 Is crowned as king george vi 531 00:31:06,323 --> 00:31:10,817 In the ceremony that he helped plan for his brother. 532 00:31:10,828 --> 00:31:12,485 [cheering] 533 00:31:12,496 --> 00:31:17,499 The popular edward viii will be a tough act to follow. 534 00:31:17,576 --> 00:31:21,753 And george will need to become a symbol of national survival 535 00:31:21,830 --> 00:31:23,672 As war looms. 536 00:31:23,749 --> 00:31:28,093 [cheering] 537 00:31:30,097 --> 00:31:32,923 George vi, the reluctant king, 538 00:31:32,933 --> 00:31:36,927 Has one advantage over his scandalous brother edward-- 539 00:31:36,937 --> 00:31:39,930 His family. 540 00:31:39,940 --> 00:31:41,431 This film is taken 541 00:31:41,442 --> 00:31:43,525 Just as they first move in to buckingham palace 542 00:31:43,602 --> 00:31:45,527 In 1937. 543 00:31:48,023 --> 00:31:51,608 The invited cameras show george as a happy family man 544 00:31:51,619 --> 00:31:53,952 With his heir, 10-year-old elizabeth, 545 00:31:54,079 --> 00:31:55,954 And 6-year-old margaret. 546 00:31:58,083 --> 00:32:02,628 They are so close-knit, the king calls them "us four." 547 00:32:07,459 --> 00:32:09,626 Just a month after the coronation, 548 00:32:09,637 --> 00:32:13,972 Edward marries wallis at the chateau de cande in France. 549 00:32:16,393 --> 00:32:19,686 Not one member of the royal family attends. 550 00:32:22,224 --> 00:32:25,067 The bride wears a special kind of blue, 551 00:32:25,143 --> 00:32:28,645 Dubbed "wallis blue" by its dressmaker. 552 00:32:28,656 --> 00:32:31,073 George gives edward and wallis the title 553 00:32:31,149 --> 00:32:33,992 "the duke and duchess of windsor." 554 00:32:34,161 --> 00:32:37,821 But he refuses wallis the title "her royal highness," 555 00:32:37,831 --> 00:32:39,998 Which would officially recognize her 556 00:32:40,075 --> 00:32:41,875 As a member of the royal family. 557 00:32:45,414 --> 00:32:48,248 By now, adolf hitler is in power 558 00:32:48,258 --> 00:32:51,802 And germany is once again turning into a military machine. 559 00:32:53,672 --> 00:32:56,682 New king george vi and his government 560 00:32:56,758 --> 00:32:59,851 Are appalled by the fuhrer's warmongering. 561 00:32:59,928 --> 00:33:01,853 But what really upsets them 562 00:33:01,930 --> 00:33:05,691 Is when the duke of windsor defies government advice. 563 00:33:05,767 --> 00:33:09,027 He goes on a semi-official, unsanctioned visit 564 00:33:09,154 --> 00:33:12,605 To nazi germany. 565 00:33:12,616 --> 00:33:14,950 Dr. Ley, one of hitler's inner circle, 566 00:33:15,027 --> 00:33:18,954 Meets the duke and duchess at berlin station. 567 00:33:19,031 --> 00:33:23,283 ♪ 568 00:33:23,293 --> 00:33:25,377 They attend a concert 569 00:33:25,454 --> 00:33:28,547 And inspect a squad of ss stormtroopers. 570 00:33:31,802 --> 00:33:36,296 Hitler even invites them to his private mountain retreat. 571 00:33:36,306 --> 00:33:39,299 The trip is a huge embarrassment to the british government 572 00:33:39,309 --> 00:33:42,060 And royal family. 573 00:33:42,271 --> 00:33:45,305 The once popular king is now notorious 574 00:33:45,315 --> 00:33:48,475 And accused of being a nazi sympathizer, 575 00:33:48,485 --> 00:33:51,061 An allegation that will hang over him 576 00:33:51,071 --> 00:33:52,738 For the rest of his life. 577 00:33:56,994 --> 00:33:58,660 In June 1939, 578 00:33:58,737 --> 00:34:02,748 George and elizabeth go on a state visit of their own, 579 00:34:02,824 --> 00:34:04,741 To america. 580 00:34:04,752 --> 00:34:07,335 They are guests of president franklin roosevelt 581 00:34:07,412 --> 00:34:10,422 In washington, d.C. 582 00:34:10,499 --> 00:34:12,591 This is the first time 583 00:34:12,667 --> 00:34:15,168 That a president has stood next to a reigning british monarch 584 00:34:15,179 --> 00:34:17,012 On american soil. 585 00:34:19,516 --> 00:34:24,102 It's a calculated pr maneuver by roosevelt. 586 00:34:24,179 --> 00:34:26,179 As war in europe looks imminent, 587 00:34:26,190 --> 00:34:28,014 He's invited the king here 588 00:34:28,025 --> 00:34:31,768 To boost american support for the brits. 589 00:34:31,779 --> 00:34:33,695 Announcer: Dense crowds line the thoroughfare, 590 00:34:33,772 --> 00:34:36,114 And the cheers are eloquent with the understanding and friendship 591 00:34:36,283 --> 00:34:38,700 Felt for britain's king and queen. 592 00:34:38,777 --> 00:34:45,123 [cheering] 593 00:34:45,209 --> 00:34:46,533 Narrator: Secretary of the treasury 594 00:34:46,543 --> 00:34:48,201 Henry morgenthau, jr. 595 00:34:48,212 --> 00:34:50,879 Films some of their trip. 596 00:34:56,303 --> 00:34:57,886 His home movies show something 597 00:34:57,963 --> 00:35:01,139 The newsreels are not allowed to broadcast-- 598 00:35:01,225 --> 00:35:04,801 A polio-stricken roosevelt walking. 599 00:35:04,812 --> 00:35:09,147 [cheering] 600 00:35:09,358 --> 00:35:11,066 They board the presidential yacht 601 00:35:11,143 --> 00:35:12,776 To visit mount vernon. 602 00:35:16,323 --> 00:35:17,572 King george even lays a wreath 603 00:35:17,649 --> 00:35:20,733 On the tomb of george washington, 604 00:35:20,744 --> 00:35:23,245 Becoming the first british monarch to do so. 605 00:35:24,156 --> 00:35:26,498 [applause] 606 00:35:26,575 --> 00:35:28,658 Later, the royal couple spend time 607 00:35:28,669 --> 00:35:31,911 At roosevelt's country home, hyde park, 608 00:35:31,922 --> 00:35:34,172 With the president's wife, eleanor, 609 00:35:34,249 --> 00:35:37,092 And his mother sara. 610 00:35:37,169 --> 00:35:40,345 On the menu that day--hot dogs. 611 00:35:40,422 --> 00:35:41,921 It becomes news 612 00:35:41,932 --> 00:35:45,433 That the royal couple eat and enjoy them. 613 00:35:46,428 --> 00:35:48,728 [cheering] 614 00:35:50,348 --> 00:35:53,099 When they visit the world's fair in new york, 615 00:35:53,110 --> 00:35:54,276 They are the biggest attraction 616 00:35:54,352 --> 00:35:56,862 For the attending american crowds. 617 00:36:00,284 --> 00:36:02,442 This is the dawn of a new era 618 00:36:02,452 --> 00:36:04,619 In american and british cooperation, 619 00:36:04,696 --> 00:36:06,362 An important milestone 620 00:36:06,373 --> 00:36:09,791 In the two countries' special relationship, 621 00:36:09,868 --> 00:36:13,253 Which will soon be put to the test. 622 00:36:14,298 --> 00:36:16,548 [gulls squawking] 623 00:36:16,625 --> 00:36:21,219 Dartmouth naval college, July 1939. 624 00:36:21,388 --> 00:36:26,883 The king and queen return to their british royal engagements. 625 00:36:26,894 --> 00:36:30,637 On this trip they bring their daughters. 626 00:36:30,647 --> 00:36:33,899 It's here that 13-year-old princess elizabeth 627 00:36:33,975 --> 00:36:35,058 Is officially introduced 628 00:36:35,068 --> 00:36:38,478 To 18-year-old prince philip of greece. 629 00:36:38,488 --> 00:36:40,488 As they play croquet, 630 00:36:40,565 --> 00:36:45,577 One of their first exchanges is captured on camera. 631 00:36:45,654 --> 00:36:48,404 It will turn out to be a life-changing visit 632 00:36:48,415 --> 00:36:51,241 For princess elizabeth. 633 00:36:51,251 --> 00:36:53,326 [artillery fire] 634 00:36:53,337 --> 00:36:54,661 Just two months later, 635 00:36:54,671 --> 00:36:57,497 On the 3rd of September 1939, 636 00:36:57,507 --> 00:37:01,584 Britain declares war against germany. 637 00:37:01,595 --> 00:37:03,419 The king decides to stay in london, 638 00:37:03,430 --> 00:37:05,263 Even as the bombs rain down 639 00:37:05,340 --> 00:37:09,559 In the most terrifying blitz the capital has ever witnessed. 640 00:37:12,689 --> 00:37:15,273 On the 13th of September 1940, 641 00:37:15,350 --> 00:37:17,684 A bomb falls on buckingham palace, 642 00:37:17,694 --> 00:37:20,779 Nearly hitting the royal apartments. 643 00:37:20,855 --> 00:37:22,855 Shortly after, the king talks about it 644 00:37:22,866 --> 00:37:25,775 In a radio broadcast to the nation. 645 00:37:25,786 --> 00:37:30,288 George vi: I am speaking to you now from buckingham palace, 646 00:37:30,365 --> 00:37:33,116 With its honorable scar. 647 00:37:33,126 --> 00:37:35,210 Narrator: The queen reportedly says, 648 00:37:35,287 --> 00:37:38,255 "I can now look the east end in the face." 649 00:37:41,551 --> 00:37:44,627 They tirelessly visit their war-torn subjects 650 00:37:44,638 --> 00:37:47,213 And lift the spirits of the country 651 00:37:47,224 --> 00:37:49,307 During its darkest years of war. 652 00:37:49,434 --> 00:37:53,311 ♪ 653 00:37:53,480 --> 00:37:55,188 [cheering] 654 00:37:57,225 --> 00:38:00,193 Princess elizabeth serves as an army mechanic. 655 00:38:01,905 --> 00:38:05,991 The family's war efforts make them incredibly popular. 656 00:38:15,335 --> 00:38:20,663 The duke and duchess of windsor see out a very different war. 657 00:38:20,674 --> 00:38:22,999 In 1940, winston churchill, 658 00:38:23,010 --> 00:38:25,093 Worried about their nazi sympathies, 659 00:38:25,170 --> 00:38:28,930 Sends the duke to become the governor of the bahamas. 660 00:38:30,842 --> 00:38:35,261 He's kept as far away from the war as possible. 661 00:38:35,272 --> 00:38:36,679 Churchill wants to avoid 662 00:38:36,690 --> 00:38:40,350 Any further encounters with the nazis. 663 00:38:40,360 --> 00:38:44,112 Privately the duke calls the bahamas a third-rate colony 664 00:38:44,189 --> 00:38:49,367 And asks for the governor's mansion to be refurbished. 665 00:38:49,444 --> 00:38:55,281 The cost is estimated to be the same as a fighter plane. 666 00:38:55,292 --> 00:38:57,459 The british government refuse. 667 00:39:00,380 --> 00:39:04,382 [cheering] 668 00:39:04,551 --> 00:39:06,542 After six long years of war, 669 00:39:06,553 --> 00:39:08,470 Hitler is finally defeated 670 00:39:08,546 --> 00:39:10,388 And peace is declared. 671 00:39:10,465 --> 00:39:12,891 [cheering] 672 00:39:12,967 --> 00:39:17,812 In london, thousands descend on buckingham palace. 673 00:39:17,889 --> 00:39:20,398 They cheer for the king to come out on the balcony 674 00:39:20,525 --> 00:39:23,142 Again and again. 675 00:39:23,153 --> 00:39:25,820 The royals emerge an incredible eight times 676 00:39:25,897 --> 00:39:27,405 To celebrate with their people... 677 00:39:27,482 --> 00:39:30,575 [cheering] 678 00:39:30,652 --> 00:39:33,986 ...With some trademark waving. 679 00:39:33,997 --> 00:39:36,823 But war has physically exhausted the king. 680 00:39:36,833 --> 00:39:40,243 At only 49, his health is failing. 681 00:39:43,081 --> 00:39:47,634 Princess elizabeth will soon be thrust into the limelight. 682 00:39:54,601 --> 00:39:58,269 Hms vanguard, February 1947. 683 00:39:58,346 --> 00:40:01,773 The royal family are on their way to south africa. 684 00:40:01,850 --> 00:40:05,935 It's their first overseas royal tour after the war. 685 00:40:05,946 --> 00:40:07,529 [cheering] 686 00:40:11,943 --> 00:40:14,777 A carefree 20-year-old princess elizabeth 687 00:40:14,788 --> 00:40:16,955 Plays a game of tag on deck. 688 00:40:20,377 --> 00:40:24,838 After years of turmoil, the family can finally relax. 689 00:40:30,053 --> 00:40:33,796 George leads the family off the ship in cape town. 690 00:40:33,807 --> 00:40:35,798 This is the first time a reigning monarch 691 00:40:35,809 --> 00:40:38,476 Has ever visited south africa. 692 00:40:38,553 --> 00:40:39,644 [cheering] 693 00:40:39,721 --> 00:40:42,221 Later, when they drive through durban, 694 00:40:42,232 --> 00:40:44,482 They are overwhelmed by the crowds. 695 00:40:44,693 --> 00:40:49,487 [cheering] 696 00:40:49,573 --> 00:40:54,117 The tour takes in 10,000 miles in just two months. 697 00:40:58,081 --> 00:41:00,823 The royal family also visit zululand 698 00:41:00,834 --> 00:41:03,910 In eastern south africa. 699 00:41:03,920 --> 00:41:07,505 Thousands of locals come to pay homage to them. 700 00:41:07,582 --> 00:41:10,550 [chanting] 701 00:41:12,596 --> 00:41:14,012 On her 21st birthday, 702 00:41:14,088 --> 00:41:17,515 Princess elizabeth addresses her people on camera 703 00:41:17,592 --> 00:41:19,559 For the very first time. 704 00:41:21,271 --> 00:41:23,763 Princess elizabeth: I declare before you all 705 00:41:23,773 --> 00:41:25,690 That my whole life, 706 00:41:25,767 --> 00:41:28,526 Whether it be long or short, 707 00:41:28,612 --> 00:41:31,270 Shall be devoted to your service 708 00:41:31,281 --> 00:41:35,366 And to the service of our great imperial family 709 00:41:35,443 --> 00:41:37,952 To which we all belong. 710 00:41:38,029 --> 00:41:41,539 Narrator: Buckingham palace, 1947. 711 00:41:41,708 --> 00:41:43,366 After a year of secrecy, 712 00:41:43,376 --> 00:41:47,295 The royal family announces elizabeth's engagement. 713 00:41:47,372 --> 00:41:50,215 Her fiancé is the naval officer she played croquet with 714 00:41:50,291 --> 00:41:51,549 Before the war, 715 00:41:51,718 --> 00:41:53,292 Prince philip. 716 00:41:53,303 --> 00:41:56,554 For some, he's a controversial choice of groom. 717 00:41:56,631 --> 00:41:59,131 He is from the greek royal family. 718 00:41:59,142 --> 00:42:00,725 Three of his sisters were married 719 00:42:00,802 --> 00:42:03,895 To german nazi aristocrats. 720 00:42:03,972 --> 00:42:07,640 At one sister's funeral back in 1937, 721 00:42:07,651 --> 00:42:12,228 He is seen walking next to the nazis. 722 00:42:12,239 --> 00:42:16,658 But he was also decorated for bravery during the war. 723 00:42:16,734 --> 00:42:21,996 People in britain are delighted to celebrate a royal wedding. 724 00:42:22,073 --> 00:42:29,254 [playing mendelssohn's wedding March] 725 00:42:30,423 --> 00:42:34,050 The couple dazzle in newsreels around the world. 726 00:42:35,679 --> 00:42:37,428 [bells ringing] 727 00:42:37,505 --> 00:42:38,846 In the throne room, 728 00:42:38,923 --> 00:42:43,175 They pose for their official wedding photos. 729 00:42:43,186 --> 00:42:46,688 They are the glamorous future of the royal family. 730 00:42:50,860 --> 00:42:52,268 London airport, 731 00:42:52,279 --> 00:42:56,614 Five years later, in January 1952. 732 00:42:56,691 --> 00:43:03,580 A very ill george vi cannot go on another tour of the empire. 733 00:43:03,948 --> 00:43:06,115 He sends his daughter in his place. 734 00:43:06,126 --> 00:43:08,376 [applause and cheering] 735 00:43:08,453 --> 00:43:10,962 The family come to say their goodbyes. 736 00:43:15,126 --> 00:43:18,219 Princess elizabeth does not realize 737 00:43:18,296 --> 00:43:20,722 That she will never see her father again. 738 00:43:22,717 --> 00:43:25,810 George vi has only days to live. 739 00:43:29,316 --> 00:43:32,150 [cheering] 740 00:43:32,226 --> 00:43:35,227 Princess elizabeth and prince philip's six-month tour 741 00:43:35,238 --> 00:43:37,405 Starts in kenya. 742 00:43:37,482 --> 00:43:40,825 [cheering] 743 00:43:40,902 --> 00:43:42,327 Bystanders remark 744 00:43:42,403 --> 00:43:45,204 That the princess looks happy and carefree. 745 00:43:47,584 --> 00:43:52,253 They stay at sagana lodge following a safari. 746 00:43:52,330 --> 00:43:55,423 It's here, just six days into the tour, 747 00:43:55,500 --> 00:43:58,259 That elizabeth receives the tragic news. 748 00:44:00,513 --> 00:44:02,254 Her father is dead. 749 00:44:05,176 --> 00:44:07,518 Devastated, she returns to britain. 750 00:44:11,107 --> 00:44:14,600 These are her first steps on british soil 751 00:44:14,611 --> 00:44:16,686 As elizabeth ii, 752 00:44:16,696 --> 00:44:19,438 Queen of the united kingdom. 753 00:44:19,449 --> 00:44:22,191 She is just 25 years old. 754 00:44:25,029 --> 00:44:27,538 George's body is taken to westminster hall 755 00:44:27,615 --> 00:44:29,207 To lie in state. 756 00:44:35,373 --> 00:44:37,548 A grieving public pay their respects 757 00:44:37,625 --> 00:44:41,094 To the monarch who led them through world war ii. 758 00:44:47,051 --> 00:44:50,219 The 56-year-old king is then taken to windsor 759 00:44:50,230 --> 00:44:53,055 To be buried with his ancestors. 760 00:44:55,860 --> 00:45:00,613 The royal women hide their grief in thick black veils. 761 00:45:05,903 --> 00:45:08,904 The queen leaves the ceremony first. 762 00:45:08,915 --> 00:45:12,166 She is now the head of the house of windsor. 763 00:45:20,593 --> 00:45:23,177 2nd of June 1953. 764 00:45:23,254 --> 00:45:26,764 Britain prepares for the biggest event of the queen's life-- 765 00:45:26,933 --> 00:45:28,891 Her coronation. 766 00:45:30,937 --> 00:45:35,064 The entire country is gripped with coronation fever. 767 00:45:36,901 --> 00:45:38,434 For the first time ever, 768 00:45:38,445 --> 00:45:41,446 It will be broadcast as a live television event. 769 00:45:44,108 --> 00:45:46,784 Everyone will have the opportunity 770 00:45:46,870 --> 00:45:49,537 For a front row seat. 771 00:45:49,614 --> 00:45:53,708 Just three cameras recorded her father's coronation. 772 00:45:53,785 --> 00:45:55,418 Now there will be 20. 773 00:45:57,130 --> 00:45:59,622 The man in charge is david eccles, 774 00:45:59,632 --> 00:46:01,883 The minister of works. 775 00:46:01,959 --> 00:46:03,801 David eccles: It's quite clear that this time, 776 00:46:03,878 --> 00:46:05,803 Right from the very beginning, 777 00:46:05,880 --> 00:46:08,639 We must plan the scheme of decorations 778 00:46:08,716 --> 00:46:12,810 And select the points at which cameras are sited 779 00:46:12,979 --> 00:46:16,472 So that the best pictures can be made. 780 00:46:16,483 --> 00:46:20,810 [cheering] 781 00:46:20,820 --> 00:46:23,729 Narrator: Although many will be watching at home, 782 00:46:23,740 --> 00:46:25,231 Tens of thousands gather 783 00:46:25,241 --> 00:46:27,900 As she leaves for westminster abbey. 784 00:46:27,911 --> 00:46:32,663 [cheering] 785 00:46:34,000 --> 00:46:35,833 In the abbey, 786 00:46:35,960 --> 00:46:39,495 She formally dedicates herself to her millions of subjects. 787 00:46:39,506 --> 00:46:43,341 Man: Madame, is your majesty willing to take the oath? 788 00:46:43,417 --> 00:46:44,926 Queen elizabeth: I am willing. 789 00:46:45,002 --> 00:46:46,418 News announcer: The anointing takes place 790 00:46:46,429 --> 00:46:48,513 Under a canopy of cloth of gold, 791 00:46:48,589 --> 00:46:50,422 For this part of the ceremony is withheld 792 00:46:50,433 --> 00:46:53,259 Even from the eyes of those present. 793 00:46:53,269 --> 00:46:56,938 Narrator: 27 million viewers crowd around tv sets 794 00:46:57,014 --> 00:46:59,598 Specially bought for the occasion 795 00:46:59,609 --> 00:47:03,686 And watch this mysterious and rare spectacle. 796 00:47:03,696 --> 00:47:06,188 Though she doesn't know it at the time, 797 00:47:06,199 --> 00:47:08,607 The queen is bringing the modern television age 798 00:47:08,618 --> 00:47:10,159 To britain. 799 00:47:12,864 --> 00:47:19,836 [cheering] 800 00:47:22,131 --> 00:47:24,715 The broadcast helps launch queen elizabeth 801 00:47:24,792 --> 00:47:28,302 As one of the most popular rulers in british history. 802 00:47:33,017 --> 00:47:36,635 This coronation is a watershed moment for the monarchy, 803 00:47:36,646 --> 00:47:41,482 Ensuring their survival into the next century. 804 00:47:41,559 --> 00:47:45,903 Elizabeth ii becomes a symbol of duty and continuity 805 00:47:46,114 --> 00:47:48,155 In uncertain times 806 00:47:48,232 --> 00:47:49,982 And will eventually outlive 807 00:47:49,993 --> 00:47:52,818 Her great-great-grandmother queen victoria 808 00:47:52,829 --> 00:47:55,913 To become britain's longest-serving monarch. 809 00:47:55,999 --> 00:47:59,375 [cheering]