Full name:  George IV Born:  12th August 1762 Place of Birth:  St James's Palace, London Ascended to the throne:  29th January 1820, aged 57 years Crowned:  19th July 1821, at Westminster Abbey Reign:  10 years Died:  26th June 1830, Windsor Castle, Windsor

George was born 12th August 1762, the oldest son of George III and Queen Charlotte.

In 1795, George married Princess Caroline of Brunswick so parliament would pay his debts. George tried to divorce Caroline after his accession in 1820. She died a year later, which meant George had no chance to produce another heir. Their only child had died giving birth to a stillborn.

George became king in 1820, but was regent from 1811, when his father was declared insane.

George was never fond of government, and was more interested in the arts. The ceremonial side of monarchy was developed during his reign, thanks to his interests in collecting and building. He built the Royal Pavilion in Bristol, a place he was fond of.

In 1829, he was forced by his minsters to agree to Catholic emancipation, which enabled the monarchy to play a more national role.

George was never very popular, and died in seclusion on 26th June 1830. With no children the crown passed to his younger brother, William IV.