Duke Philip of Edinburgh is the husband of Queen Elizabeth, father of the heir to the throne, Prince Charles, and three other children. The born prince of Greece is distinguished by a difficult character, which does not prevent him from enjoying the love of his family and subjects.
Childhood and youth
Philip Mountbatten is the only son of Prince Andrew of Greece and Princess Alice. Today he is considered one of the most noble representatives of European royal families. Philip is the great-great-grandson of Queen Victoria and the Russian Emperor Nicholas I, the great-grandson of the Danish king Christian IX.
The prince's biography is extremely bizarre. He was born in 1922, a few months later the family was expelled from Greece after the overthrow of Constantine I. Having lost their fortune, the parents could not adequately support Philip and his four sisters, after 4 years the boy was sent to London, under the patronage of relatives. The prince was educated in Germany and Scotland. then entered the English Naval Cola. As a midshipman, Philip went through the entire war, took part in battles, and has military awards.
While still in college, the prince met his distant cousins - the heiress to the English throne Elizabeth and her sister. A spark flashed between Elizabeth and Philip, which was destined to turn into a real feeling. Correspondence ensued, and in 1946 the prince asked for the hand of the future queen and received consent.
Royal duties
The condition for the marriage was the renunciation of the title and the adoption of the name Mountbatten. The Crown Princess's groom was granted new titles - Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merionet and Baron of Greenwich. In 1952, Elizabeth became queen, after 5 years Philip received the title of Prince of the English royal house, which is usually given by birth.
After becoming the husband of the Crown Princess, and later the Queen, the Duke began to play an important role in all ceremonial and protocol events. He became a patron of many organizations, spent a lot of time on international travel, received the heads of other royal houses and presidents. Philip was rightfully considered one of the most efficient and active members of the royal family.
During the years of marriage, four children were born: the heir to the throne Charles, the only daughter Anna, and also Andrew and Edward. Philip was a rather harsh and demanding father, later Charles complained that he lacked warmth and sympathy in the family.
In 2017, Kengsington Palace officially announced the departure of the Duke of Edinburgh on a condemned vacation. From now on, he does not take part in official events, but does attend private celebrations. for example, grandchildren's weddings. Despite his advanced years, the prince is in good shape, often goes on horseback riding, draws, communicates with friends.
Character traits and personal life
The Duke of Edinburgh has always had a peculiar character. A very direct, not inclined to sentimentality, at times harsh and categorical character was formed as a result of a difficult childhood, military upbringing and an unusual role that he played at court. Many biographers believe that it was very difficult for the proud and touchy Philip to always play supporting roles next to his wife. Elizabeth had to act as diplomatically as possible, smoothing out the rough edges. For example, at the insistence of Philip, their children began to bear the double surname Mountbatten-Windsor.
In his youth and maturity, Philip was considered the first handsome man at court. He is credited with many novels. Among the passions, even the queen's close relatives are called. But, despite the small and large intrigues, the duke was prudent enough to preserve the outward decency of the family. His feelings for the queen were never questioned.
Philip became famous for his ambiguous jokes, which the press was happy to quote. Surprisingly, the public is not offended, believing that the Duke's statements are a real example of English humor, slightly seasoned with pepper.
