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The Secret Feud Between Prince Philip and The Queen Mother | Behind Closed Doors | Timeline

Timeline - World History Documentaries・33 minutes read

Queen Elizabeth's coronation in 1953 marked a new era in British history, with conflict between tradition and modernization. Prince Philip faced resistance in his attempts to modernize the monarchy, leading to tensions within the royal household.

Insights

  • Conflict arose between traditionalists and modernizers within the royal family, with Prince Philip pushing for change while facing resistance from figures like Queen Mary and the Queen Mother, leading to tensions and clashes.
  • The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 marked a pivotal moment in British history, symbolizing a new era of recovery and imperial power after WWII, showcasing meticulous preparation emphasizing tradition and continuity, and solidifying the monarchy's image as a blend of tradition and progress.

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  • Who became Queen in 1953?

    Elizabeth

  • What was Prince Philip's role in the monarchy?

    Modernize

  • What was the significance of the coronation?

    New era

  • What challenges did Prince Philip face?

    Resistance

  • How was the coronation received by the public?

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Summary

00:00

"Queen Elizabeth's Coronation: Tradition vs Modernity"

  • On June 2, 1953, Princess Elizabeth became Queen at 27 years old in a grand coronation ceremony with deep historical roots.
  • Prince Philip aimed for a modern monarchy but faced resistance from traditionalists, including Queen Mary, who wanted continuity.
  • Conflict brewed between the old guard and the new ideas leading up to the coronation, with the Queen caught in the middle.
  • King George VI's death in 1952 thrust Elizabeth, then 25, into the role of monarch, symbolizing a new era in British history.
  • The coronation was meant to signal a new Elizabethan age, showcasing Britain's recovery from WWII and its imperial power.
  • The 16-month preparation for the coronation was meticulous, with a focus on tradition and continuity, similar to George VI's coronation.
  • Queen Elizabeth's mother, the Queen Mother, played a significant role in shaping the royal family's image, working with designers like Norman Hartnell.
  • Prince Philip's background and European connections raised suspicions among the establishment, but he won Elizabeth's heart.
  • Philip's naval career suffered after King George VI's death, and he faced challenges adjusting to royal life, including moving to Buckingham Palace.
  • Philip's attempts to modernize Buckingham Palace faced resistance from traditionalists, including the Queen Mother, leading to tensions and clashes within the royal household.

19:12

Royal Rivalry and Family Tensions

  • The society photographer Baron Noun was known for being in unsuitable company, including the Queen Mother's favorite, Cecil Beetle.
  • Baron was a philanderer, while Beetle was camp, leading to a rivalry in photographing royal events.
  • Baron's parties were lively, with interesting guests like actors, artists, and authors.
  • The Thursday Club, a luncheon group, was formed by Baron for socializing and relaxation.
  • Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip had contrasting personalities, causing tension in their marriage.
  • The Queen Mother's presence in the palace hindered Philip's attempts at reform.
  • The Queen Mother resisted modernization, staying in Buckingham Palace despite her daughter's reign.
  • Philip proposed changing the royal family name to Mountbatten, but the cabinet decided to keep it as Windsor.
  • Philip felt emasculated by the decision, as he couldn't pass on his family name to his children.
  • Elizabeth appointed Philip head of the coronation committee, where he organized visits to Commonwealth troops and faced opposition to televising the event.

37:11

Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II televised success

  • Queen Mother secured a new position weeks before the coronation, moving to Clarence House from Buckingham Palace.
  • BBC leaked the decision not to televise the coronation, sparking a media storm and public opinion in favor of televising.
  • Coronation day arrived on June 2, 1953, after 16 months of preparation, with the nation embracing the ceremony as a state religion.
  • The Queen's flawless performance during the coronation, with Philip as a significant attendant Lord but not partaking in the ceremony.
  • The coronation was a stunning success, televised to 27 million viewers, showcasing the monarchy's blend of tradition and progress.
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