The Royal Family of England fascinates many globally, and there is much to learn about their lives. Recently, Prince Philip passed away at 99 years of age, after living a long, rich life. Blogger Roman Rickwood outlines the history of this notable Royal.
By Roman Rickwood, The World Editor
Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark was born June 10, 1921, in Corfu, Greece. Philip was born into royalty as his father was Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and his mother was Princess Alice of Battenberg. However, his childhood differed tremendously from that of typical childhood royals. When Philip was very young, his family was disgraced and exiled from the monarchy of Greece. Soon after, Phillip’s mother was institutionalized and his father fled with his mistress. Philip was sent to be raised by his grandparents in England. When in England, Philip attended Gordonstoun School and then proceeded to go to the Royal Naval College. From there, Philip became an officer in the Royal British Navy. Philip began his service in January of 1940 and served until the end of the second world war. Because of his service, he became a British subject. After his service in the Royal Navy, Prince Philip renounced his right to the Greek and Danish throne in order to become First Consort. On November 20th, 1947, Prince Philip wed his distant cousin Princess Elizabeth. Before his wedding, Philip was officially knighted and designated a royal highness. After marrying then Princess Elizabeth, Phillip continued serving in the Royal Navy until February 6, 1952. It was on this date, following the death of her father, that Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth. Because of the new responsibilities, Philip gave up his military duties and committed full time to royal duties. Over the years, Elizabeth and Philip had four children. It is calculated Prince Philip attended an average of 350 official Royal Events and appearances. He was always in the public eye. Prince Phillip often expressed his own views and did not always behave as a traditional royal. However, people loved Prince Philip, sometimes despite his many classic and quotable one liners. Along with his royal duties, Philip also managed to find time for philanthropy and passion projects; he served as the president of the World Wildlife Fund from 1981-1996. This program awarded grants and scholarships to over 6 million young adults. Prince Philip was and is regarded as one of the busiest royals. Over his time representing the royal family, it is estimated that Philip completed over 22,000 solo appearances. Prince Philip died April 9, 2021, at 99 years of age. He will be remembered as the face of the Royal Family and a dedicated father, husband, and civil servant. He will be remembered for his military services, sacrifices, and humor.
First Editor-in-Chief: Elizabeth Shay
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Philip-duke-of-Edinburgh
https://www.biography.com/royalty/prince-philip
I am in total agreement with your thoughts of Prince Phillip. I met Prince Phillip in 1998 in Harlem where my research project was held while I was working on my doctorate. He was so kind and answered the questions of all the kids at this homeless shelter for children. I could tell he was on a tight schedule, but he seemed as interested at what the kids had to say and never wavered in being a true gentleman and also a true leader. I am not a believer in monarchy as I did not grow up with it, however, those that have always tell me they like to look up to their sovereignty. Unfortunately, it is a harder life people think. It is a life of duty not self. I hope younger monarchs can serve that example of commitment to their people. And you r dunce constant scrutiny and with social media people get no break. I honestly could not imagine wanting that must responsibility. But to those that do, I wish them the best and God save the Queen! Nice blog and you are insightful to see the work not glamour that goes into being a Royal.