Mary of Teck (1867-1953) was the queen consort (wife) of King George V of the United Kingdom. Mary endeared herself to the British people by her homely virtues. In place of the extravagant court of King Edward VII, she and her husband lived conservatively. Through their efforts, the monarchy regained the prestige it had enjoyed under Queen Victoria.
Mary was born in Kensington Palace in London on May 26, 1867. She was the daughter of Prince (later Duke) Francis of Teck. Her full name was Princess Victoria Mary Augusta Louise Olga Pauline Claudine Agnes. In 1893, she married George, who was at that time the Duke of York. George became king in 1910. George and Mary gained lasting popularity by their courage and devotion during World War I (1914-1918). After the death of George V in 1936, Mary retired to Marlborough House in London. Her eldest son became king as Edward VIII. Edward wanted to marry an American divorcee, Wallis Warfield Simpson. The government, the Church of England, and many British people objected. In December 1936, Edward gave up the throne to marry her, and Prince Albert, Mary’s second son, became King George VI. Upon George’s death in 1952, Mary’s granddaughter became Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Mary continued to take an active part in public affairs. Her plain dress and old-fashioned hats were famous throughout the British Empire. Mary died on March 24, 1953.
