Coronation of George IV and Caroline of Brunswick's exclusion (1820–1821)

George IV's coronation at Westminster Abbey on 19 July 1821 was postponed from 1 August 1820 due to parliamentary proceedings against his estranged wife, Queen Caroline. Although the Pains and Penalties Bill failed to strip her titles, George excluded her from the ceremony. The event was notably extravagant, marking the last recorded coronation feast.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. George IV ascended the throne on 29 January 1820 following the death of his father, George III. His estranged wife, Caroline of Brunswick, returned to England in June 1820 to claim her right to be crowned. The government introduced the Pains and Penalties Bill to dissolve the marriage, but it was withdrawn due to Caroline's popularity. Consequently, the coronation was postponed until July 1821.

Ceremony. The coronation was the most extravagant ever staged, reflecting George's lavish tastes. Traditional elements were conducted for the last time, including the coronation feast, first recorded in 1194. The ceremony was organized by the Lord Great Chamberlain and the Earl Marshal. St Edward's Crown required hired jewels, costing £375,000 in 1821.

Exclusion. Despite the failure of the Pains and Penalties Bill, George barred Caroline from the coronation. She attempted to attend as queen but was turned away at the doors of Westminster Abbey. This exclusion occurred despite her retained popularity among the masses, which had captivated the nation during the preceding year.

People involved

Sources

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