... depends on how you look at it! Certainly, from an historic perspective, 1837 was a significant year ... in so far as it marked the dawn of what became widely known as the 'Victorian Era'.
It began when the eighteen-year-old daughter of the late Duke of Kent ascended the throne in [indirect] succession to her ageing uncle, King William IV ... who had died without "legitimised" heirs (though he was believed to have fathered 18 children arising from a number of "morganatic"ual liaisons!).
Thus came about, the longest-ever reign of any British sovereign to date. Almost sixty-four years... a period embracing much of the latter half of the so-called 'Industrial Revolution', and one that encompassed many of the greatest inventions known to mankind. In 1877 (or thereabouts) Victoria was also proclaimed 'Empress of India' ... remaining in this dual role until her death in 1901.
At the ripe old age of 83, our present Queen has already lived for two years longer than her great-great grandmother, albeit still has another seven to serve in order to surpass the unbroken record of her illustrious ancestor. Will she stay the pace? Bear in mind, her own Mum reached 102 not out ...
... whaddaya think, folks?
Originally Posted by Bluebirdjones
