The dramatic story of the Princes of Wales - heirs to the British throne whose lives shaped the destiny of a nation. Perfect for readers fascinated by the British monarchy, royal succession, and medieval intrigue, including fans of Saul David, Terry Breverton, and David Loades. Since King Edward I conquered Wales in 1282, the title 'Prince of Wales' has carried immense prestige, political significance, and often terrible danger. From the first English prince - the future Edward II, born at Caernarfon Castle - to the Investiture of Prince Charles in 1969, the story of the Princes of Wales is one of ambition, tragedy, duty, and power. In this compelling history, renowned broadcaster and journalist Wynford Vaughan-Thomas brings vividly to life the men who held the title across six turbulent centuries. Some were brave warriors and capable rulers; others were weak, ill-fated, or manipulated by ambitious nobles and scheming politicians. Many met violent ends on the battlefield or in captivity, while others would go on to become some of the most famous monarchs in British history. Here are princes immortalised by William Shakespeare, kings who changed the course of history, and rulers whose personal lives shook the monarchy itself - including Edward VIII, who abdicated for Wallis Simpson; George IV, the extravagant Prince Regent; and Charles I and Charles II, whose reigns transformed Britain forever. The book also explores some of history's great royal mysteries and tantalising 'what ifs' - including the fate of the Princes in the Tower and the possibility that Richard III never murdered his young rivals at all. Rich in drama, intrigue, scandal, and political conflict, this is the extraordinary story of the men raised to inherit the crown - and the heavy burden carried by every Prince of Wales.
