George Vs Views on Adolf Hitler: A Look into the Mind of a Monarch

Introduction

As the last monarch of the House of Hanover, George V ruled the United Kingdom from 1910 to 1936. His reign was marked by significant changes, including the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Germany. This article explores what George V thought of Adolf Hitler, based on historical accounts and primary sources, shedding light on a lesser-known aspect of the monarch.

Understanding George V

George V was not a man of great intellect, as some historians suggest. However, his views on the rise of Adolf Hitler and the growing power of the Nazi Party were noteworthy. As a head of state, his opinions and public statements had significant implications for British foreign policy and public perception.

Concerns About the Rise of Hitler and the Nazi Party

Historical accounts suggest that George V was deeply concerned about the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Nazi Party in Germany. This sentiment is clearly evident in his interactions with German officials and dispatches to the British ambassador in Berlin.

In 1934, the British monarch bluntly told the German ambassador, Leopold von Hoesch, that Germany was a peril to the world. His warning to the British ambassador, Eric Phipps, to be suspicious of the Nazis further underscores his disapproval of the Nazi Party's ascent to power. These statements indicate that George V had a clear and steadfast position on the emerging threat in Germany.

Quotes from Primary Sources

Primary sources, such as those from Nicolson and Owens, provide direct quotes from George V's interactions with German officials. These accounts highlight the monarch's apprehension about the direction of German politics and the potential for a looming war. For instance, in one document, George V warned that Germany was "now the peril of the world" and that there was "bound to be a war within ten years" if Germany continued at its current pace.

Impact on British Foreign Policy

These views influenced British foreign policy significantly. The challenge for British diplomats and the British government was to balance George V's concerns with the prevailing sentiment of appeasement towards Germany. The prevailing view in the British government at the time was to maintain peace at any cost, even if it meant appeasing Hitler and sacrificing other nations.

Personal Life and Health

It is worth noting that George V's personal life also played a role in his statecraft. His relationships, particularly his marriage to Queen Mary, had a significant impact on his mental and physical health. Historian Jon Bourgetti, in a apparent attempt to link George V's sexual prowess to his state of mind, suggests that his health was compromised by his wife, Wallis Simpson. However, this is a controversial and highly debated point, and the evidence for such a claim is limited.

Final Thoughts

George V's views on Adolf Hitler and the rise of the Nazi Party reflect a deep-seated concern for the stability and security of the world. While his influence on British foreign policy was shaped by his personal relationships and the prevailing political climate, his statements to German officials and the British ambassador indicate a clear and unwavering disapproval of the Nazi regime.

Understanding George V's perspective on Adolf Hitler is crucial for comprehending the context in which British policymakers operated and the tensions that led to World War II. His views highlight the challenges faced by monarchs and statesmen in confronting new and emerging threats to global peace and stability.