The Prince Who Fought on the Other Side

02apr14:00The Prince Who Fought on the Other SideSky Lounge - 14:00

Event Details

The Prince Who Fought on the Other Side:

Join us for an enlightening presentation by Phyllis James, volunteer archivist at St George’s Chapel, as she delves into the complex and controversial life of Prince Charles Edward, a member of the British royal family who became a German duke and Nazi supporter.

About the Presentation

Phyllis James will explore the challenging scenario faced by the British Royal Family from Queen Victoria’s time until after the Second World War, focusing on:

  • Charles Edward’s early life as Queen Victoria’s favorite grandson
  • His forced relocation to Germany to become Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
  • The impact of World War I on his loyalties and relationships
  • His involvement with the Nazi Party and Hitler’s regime
  • The consequences of his actions on the British Royal Family
Highlights of Charles Edward’s Life
  • Born in 1884 as a British prince, grandson of Queen Victoria
  • Became Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1900 at age 16
  • Fought for Germany in World War I, leading to his removal from the British peerage
  • Joined the Nazi Party in 1935 and rose to a high rank in the SA (Brownshirts)
  • Served as President of the German Red Cross during the Nazi era
  • Hosted the Duke and Duchess of Windsor during their controversial 1937 tour of Nazi Germany
Royal Family Implications
  • The changing of the royal family name from Saxe-Coburg and Gotha to Windsor in 1917
  • Stripping of Charles Edward’s British titles and honours
  • Broader impact on Anglo-German relations within the royal family
  • The complex relationship between the British monarchy and Nazi Germany in the 1930s

 

This presentation promises to shed light on a little-known but significant chapter in royal history, exploring the tensions between family ties, national loyalties, and political ideologies during one of the most tumultuous periods of the 20th century.

Tickets are just £5, payable at reception on the day. Although, we ask you to pre-register your attendance. Simply call: 01753 336060

Time

2 April 2025 14:00(GMT+01:00)