The British Royal Family has long been a subject of fascination, intrigue, and speculation. While the world is familiar with their titles and regal names, there has been curiosity about their true family name. Behind the grandeur and ceremony lies a historical exploration of the royal lineage and the origins of their real name.
The House of Windsor:
The current reigning family of the United Kingdom officially adopted the name Windsor in 1917. This decision was prompted by the events of World War I and the anti-German sentiment prevailing at the time. Prior to this change, their ancestral name was of German origin, reflecting their German heritage.
German Origins: House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
The royal family’s roots can be traced back to the German House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Queen Victoria, who ascended the throne in 1837, married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, solidifying the German connection within the British monarchy. Their children carried the German family name, Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.
Change in Response to World War I:
As World War I intensified, anti-German sentiment grew in Britain. In 1917, King George V, who was then on the throne, made the pivotal decision to abandon the German-sounding name in favor of something more British. The change aimed to reinforce a sense of national unity and to distance the monarchy from its German associations during a time of war with Germany.
The Birth of the House of Windsor:
King George V chose the name Windsor as the new family name. It was inspired by Windsor Castle, a historic residence of the royal family located in Berkshire, England. The name change represented a symbolic shift towards a more British identity for the monarchy.
Evolution and Modern Royal Family:
Since the adoption of the name Windsor, subsequent generations of the royal family have carried this name. Notably, Queen Elizabeth II, the current reigning monarch, and her descendants are members of the House of Windsor.
Throughout the years, the royal family has undergone various changes and developments, reflecting the evolving times and societal expectations. Nevertheless, the name Windsor has remained a constant symbol of the monarchy and its connection to the British people.