21 February 2026
In a recent video by Channel 4 News titled "Royal crises throughout history," the creator delves into significant moments that have tested the British monarchy. The video provides a historical perspective on royal crises, drawing parallels between past events and the current situation involving Prince Andrew Mountbatten Windsor.
The video opens with a provocative question: Is Prince Andrew's recent arrest the biggest constitutional crisis in British history? The creator notes that the last time a royal family member faced arrest was nearly 400 years ago, in 1647, when King Charles I was imprisoned by Oliver Cromwell during the English Civil War. This historical context sets the stage for understanding the gravity of the current situation.
The narrative then shifts to World War I, highlighting how the intertwined royal families of Europe faced challenges due to rising anti-German sentiment. King George V took decisive action by enacting a law that allowed the government to strip titles from those deemed enemies of Britain. This led to the removal of titles from four individuals, showcasing the monarchy's vulnerability during times of national crisis. Notably, George V also changed the royal family's name from the House of Saxe-Coburg to Windsor, a move aimed at distancing the monarchy from its German roots.
The video continues to explore another significant crisis involving Edward VIII, who ascended to the throne after his father's death. Edward's desire to marry Wallis Simpson, an American woman with two divorces, sparked a constitutional crisis. The British government opposed the marriage, leading Edward to abdicate the throne, a decision that had lasting implications for the monarchy.
Finally, the video returns to the present, discussing Prince Andrew's recent legal troubles. After being questioned for 11 hours regarding allegations of misconduct in public office, he was released under investigation. While he has not been formally charged and maintains his innocence, the situation raises questions about the monarchy's stability and public perception.
This video provides a compelling overview of how historical events shape the monarchy's present, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding royal crises. If you're interested in exploring these themes further, you can watch the full video on Channel 4 News.
Do you like reading content like this? Subscribe to our newsletter and we'll send you a weekly digest of summarised Youtube content