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Edward (PRINCE OF WALES Christ Church)

PRINCE OF WALES 475 Christ Church, Oxford, for one year; and Cambridge University for four terms.

In 1860 he traveled throughout the United States and Canada and in the year following made a tour of the Orient, Dean Stanley. In February, 1863, he took his seat in the House of Lords, and on March 10 of the same year married Princess Alexandra, eldest daughter of King Christian IX . of Denmark. In the years following he made, in company with the Princess, tours of various parts of the Empire where he was everywhere enthusiastically received. retirement of Queen Victoria he became leader of British society and represented the Crown at all important functions. His genial disposition and democratic bearing made him a universal favorite. He became King upon the death of Queen Victoria, on Jan. 2, 1901.

The coronation was set for Jan. 26, 1902, but the king was seized with a severe illness and it was until Aug. 9 of the same year.

On his accession to the throne Edward at once took a prominent part in European politics, devoting himself especially to the maintenance of European peace. He interchanged many visits with the German Emperor , with the Czar of Russia, and with the President of France. He also maintained most cordial relations with the United States. At home his deep interest in the welfare of his people maintained and increased his popularity.

He founded the Order of Merit for disin war, science, and literature and the service of man. situation, especially the measures for tax The political reform and the crisis in the House of Lords caused him much anxiety in 1910.

He died unexpectedly on May 6 of that year from heart failure following a bron- . After lying in state for three days at Westminster Hall the body of the King was buried at Windsor. The funeral was notable for the attendance of sovereigns and of important public men from all the countries of the world.

Six children were born to King Edward and Queen Alexandra: Prince Albert Victor, born Jan. 8, 1864, died Jan. 14, 1892; Prince George, born Jan. 13, 1865; Princess Louisa Victoria, born Feb. 20, 1867; Princess Victoria Alexandra, born July 6, 1868; 186 Princess Maude Charlotte, born Nov. 26, 1869; and Prince Alex- John, born April 6, 1871. He died on the following day.