The English throne has been the seat of monarchs dating back to the eighth century. The kings and queens who ruled had great power until the late 1700s when the position became ceremonial and power passed to Parliament. In 1930, George V of the Saxe-Coburg-Gotha family sat on the English throne.
The King's Younger Years
George was born to Edward, Prince of Wales and Alexandra, Princess of Wales on June 3, 1865. His grandmother was Queen Victoria. He joined the Royal Navy after completing his studies, attending the Royal Naval College where he was promoted to lieutenant. He was given his own command of a ship in 1891, the same year he became engaged to Princess Mary of Teck. After his elder brother died the following year, George became first in line to the throne behind his father, now King Edward VII.
From Prince of Wales to King of England
George was made Prince of Wales -- a tradition for heirs to the throne -- in 1901. When his father died in 1910, King George V ascended to the throne with his wife, Queen Mary. He was well suited to the position due to the thorough training he'd received. He was also a family man, which made him popular with the British people. In 1930, George V had been king for 20 years, and he would remain on the throne for several more. He died on January 20, 1936. His granddaughter, Elizabeth II, was destined to be one of the longest sitting monarchs in British history.