Prince Albert was born in the tiny German principality on August 26, 1819. From this small region in Germans, he would go on to become one of the most important figures of the 19th century. Both as the husband of Queen Victoria and as a charismatic leader in European affairs.
Though his life was cut tragically short at the age of 42, Prince Albert left a lasting legacy both as a royal consort and as a patron of many charities.
Early Life of Prince Albert
Prince Albert was the second son of Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, and his wife Louise. He was born in 1819 in a small German area called Saxe-Coburg-Gotha.
Unlike most kids today, he didn’t go to a regular school. Instead, he had private tutors who taught him at home. This was a ‘tailored’ kind of education. It focused not just on core subjects like math and languages, but included art, music, and religion. Albert was really good at his studies, especially in math and languages.ย On top of that, he also had a keen interest in politics and science.
He also had a close relationship with his brother, Ernest II, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. They grew up learning and playing together, which must have been quite an experience for two young princes!
In 1836, he was sent to England to study at the University of Oxford.
Marriage to Queen Victoria
When her uncle, King William IV, died in 1837, Victoria became queen of England. She was quickly arranged to marry her cousin Prince Albert, and the two were married on February 12, 1840. The marriage was a happy one, and the couple went on to have nine children:
- Princess Victoria – Born 1841. Married her first cousin, Frederick III, king of Prussia.
- Albert Edward (Edward VII) – Born 1842. Became king of the United Kingdom in 1901.
- Princess Alice – Born 1843. Married her first cousin, Louis IV, grand duke of Hesse and by Rhine.
- Prince Alfred – Born 1844. Died at the age of 31 from pneumonia.
- Prince Arthur – Born 1845. Married his first cousin, Princess Louise of Prussia.
- Prince Leopold – Born 1853. Died at the age of 31 from meningitis.
- Princess Helena – Born 1846. Married her uncle, Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein.
- Princess Beatrice – Born 1857 . Married her cousin, Prince Henry of Battenberg.
- Prince George – Born 1845. Died at the age of one from meningitis.
As the queen’s consort, Prince Albert took an active role in the British government. They were a charasmatic couple and he served as a close, trusted advisor to his wife, the Queen. His influence helped Victoria to modernise the monarchy and it’s role in governance. His dedication and reputation also helped to promote trade and industry in Britain. Beyond politics, Albert was also a patron of many charities.
Death of Prince Albert
In 1861 at the age of 42, Prince Albert became very sick with a disease called typhoid fever. This illness was serious and, unfortunately, led to his death. His passing was a huge shock and hurt the Queen deeply. She missed him so much that she wore black clothes for the rest of her life to show her sadness and respect.
After he died, Queen Victoria wanted to honour his memory so she started many schools and hospitals. This way, Prince Albert’s desire to help others continued even after he was gone. His death also had a big impact on the country because Queen Victoria, deeply saddened, stayed away from public duties for a long time. She also remained a widow for the rest of her life, never to marry again.
Prince Albert is remembered today as a talented statesman and a loving husband and father. His legacy continues to be felt in the many charities he supported during his lifetime.