William IV: The Maddest Lad To Ever Sit On The British Throne

King William IV, often overlooked, led a life of adventure and controversy. Born in 1765, he joined the Royal Navy at 13, earning the nickname 'Sailor King.' Despite his royal status, he lived freely, forming a friendship with Admiral Nelson and narrowly escaping capture by George Washington. His political career was marked by controversial views, yet he also supported progressive laws. William became king at 64, focusing on ensuring his niece Victoria's succession. His reign was brief but significant, as he attempted to modernize the monarchy and disown Buckingham Palace.

What nickname did William earn due to his naval service?

• Sailor King

• Pirate King

• Captain Monarch

• Admiral Prince

Which famous historical figure approved a plot to capture Prince William during the American Revolution?

• Thomas Jefferson

• John Adams

• Benjamin Franklin

• George Washington

What was a significant event during William's naval career?

• Battle of Trafalgar

• Battle of Cape Saint Vincent

• Battle of the Nile

• Battle of Waterloo

What was one of William's controversial political views?

• Support for the abolition of slavery

• Opposition to the abolition of slavery

• Support for women's suffrage

• Opposition to religious freedom

Why did William's brother, King George IV, ask him to resign as Lord High Admiral?

• He refused to attend meetings

• He was caught in a scandal

• He was too old for the position

• He disappeared with a squadron of ships

Who was William's long-term partner with whom he had ten children?

• Dorothea Jordan

• Princess Adelaide

• Lady Jane Grey

• Queen Victoria

What was King William IV's primary goal during his reign?

• To expand the British Empire

• To modernize the navy

• To abolish the monarchy

• To ensure his niece Victoria reached adulthood

How did William's life as a sailor influence his approach to being king?

• He was uninterested in naval matters

• He was very formal and traditional

• He was informal and uncomfortable with royal trappings

• He was strict and authoritarian

What did William attempt to do with Buckingham Palace?

• Sell it to a private owner

• Convert it into a hospital

• Offer it to the British Army

• Turn it into a museum

What was the relationship between William and Princess Victoria?

• She was his cousin

• She was his sister

• She was his niece

• She was his daughter