HistoryOpinion

The spymaster who supported a counter-revolution

Philippe d’Auvergne’s life was that of a great adventurer. In his life, he rose through the ranks of the Royal Navy, saw service in the American Revolution, earned the confidence of an ageing duke, led the defence of his homeland against the barbarity of the French Revolution, funded the royalist cause, and marched with his contingent at the Battle of Waterloo. His is a life that is barely…
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Palaces & Buildings

The Queen's Guards play Aretha Franklin's Respect outside of Buckingham Palace in tribute to the Queen of Soul

The Queen’s Guards paid tribute to the Queen of Soul on Friday morning as Aretha Franklin’s 1967 hit was played outside of Buckingham Palace. The Grammy Award-winning tune was played by the Band of the Welsh Guards outside of Her Majesty’s London residence during the Changing of the Guard ceremony. At Changing of Guard at Buckingham Palace this morning, Respect paid to Aretha Franklin.
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FeaturesHistory

Who was Cleopatra?

Depicted by many a story and film presentation in years past and present, Cleopatra has represented the epitome of feminine beauty. Many ascertain her as an example to look up to when in need of advice to accomplish a well-maintained life of beauty and romance. But who…
FeaturesHistory

Royal dog letters

Frederick II, King ‘in’ Prussia, upon whom was bestowed the celebrated sobriquet of ‘the Great’ in his lifetime, was in his own words ‘a philosopher and want[ed] to be buried as such…” This was eventually carried out in 1991, in accordance with his wishes…
FeaturesHistoryNorwayRoyal Weddings

Royal Wedding Flowers: Queen Sonja of Norway

The marriage of Harald and Sonja of Norway on August 29th 1968 was a groundbreaking royal wedding. But the bride chose some very traditional blooms for her bouquet while the church where she said ‘I do’ was decked with popular flowers and foliage. As Sonja Haraldsen walked into Oslo Cathedral, she carried a bouquet of white flowers arranged in a simple design. Amongst her posy were freesias…
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British RoyalsFeaturesHistoryThe Kents

Fifty years on: The death of Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent

In the last days of August 1968, the Royal Family made a sad and surprising announcement. Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent’s health was ”giving rise to anxiety” following the diagnosis of an inoperable brain tumour. There was  sympathy for the duchess, a popular member of the House of Windsor for over three decades, and good wishes began to pour in. However, surprise turned to shock when…
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