Enlightenment · Europe · Politics

1727

George II Ascends the British Throne

June 11, 1727

George I died in Germany en route to Hanover, vomiting in his carriage. His son, the equally unloved George II, succeeded him. He would keep Walpole in power against his own inclinations, be the last British king to lead troops in battle, and listen to Handel's coronation anthems in Westminster Abbey.