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Royal Family Original Name

Introduction

The Royal Family of England is one of the oldest and most respected monarchies in the world. With a history that spans over a thousand years, the Royal Family has played a significant role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of England. However, many people are not aware of the original name of the Royal Family and how it has evolved over time. In this article, we will explore the history of the Royal Family's original name and how it has changed throughout the centuries.

The Origins of the Royal Family

The origins of the Royal Family can be traced back to the 9th century when the Anglo-Saxon kings ruled England. The first king to be recognized as the ruler of all England was King Athelstan, who reigned from 924 to 939. However, it was not until the Norman Conquest in 1066 that the Royal Family began to take on its current form.

The Norman Conquest and the Royal Family's Original Name

The Norman Conquest was a pivotal moment in English history, as it marked the beginning of the Norman dynasty. The first Norman king of England was William the Conqueror, who reigned from 1066 to 1087. It was during his reign that the Royal Family's original name was established. The name of the Royal Family at this time was the House of Normandy.

The House of Plantagenet

The House of Normandy ruled England until 1154 when Henry II became king. Henry II was a member of the House of Plantagenet, which would go on to rule England for over three centuries. The Plantagenet dynasty was one of the most powerful and influential dynasties in English history, producing such famous monarchs as Richard the Lionheart and King John.

The House of Tudor

The Plantagenet dynasty came to an end in 1485 with the death of King Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field. The victor of the battle was Henry Tudor, who became King Henry VII. Henry VII was the first monarch of the House of Tudor, which would go on to rule England for over a century. The Tudor dynasty is perhaps best known for producing such famous monarchs as King Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.

The House of Stuart

The Tudor dynasty came to an end in 1603 with the death of Queen Elizabeth I. The next monarch to ascend to the throne was James VI of Scotland, who became James I of England. James I was the first monarch of the House of Stuart, which would go on to rule England for over a century. The Stuart dynasty is perhaps best known for producing such famous monarchs as King Charles I and King James II.

The House of Hanover

The Stuart dynasty came to an end in 1714 with the death of Queen Anne. The next monarch to ascend to the throne was George I, who was a member of the House of Hanover. The Hanoverian dynasty would go on to rule England for over a century, producing such famous monarchs as King George III and Queen Victoria.

The House of Windsor

The current Royal Family's original name is the House of Windsor. The name was adopted in 1917 by King George V, who wanted to distance the Royal Family from its German roots during World War I. The name Windsor was chosen because it was the name of the castle where the Royal Family resided. The House of Windsor has produced such famous monarchs as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II.

Conclusion

The Royal Family of England has a rich and storied history that spans over a thousand years. The Royal Family's original name has evolved over time, reflecting the changing political and cultural landscape of England. From the House of Normandy to the House of Windsor, the Royal Family has played a significant role in shaping the history of England and the world. Today, the Royal Family remains one of the most respected and beloved monarchies in the world.