Albert, Prince Consort

Albert was born in 1819 in the German duchy of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. He was the second son of Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, and his first wife Louise. He had a troubled childhood due to his parents' unhappy marriage and eventual divorce. His mother was exiled from the court and he never saw her again. He was close to his elder brother Ernest and they received a liberal education under private tutors. In 1836, Albert met his first cousin Victoria, who was the heir presumptive to the British throne. They fell in love and Victoria proposed to him in 1839. They married in 1840 and had nine children. Albert became Victoria's companion and confidant. He also took on an active role in public affairs. He helped to modernize the monarchy by reforming the royal household, finances, and administration. He also promoted British industry, trade, science, art, and education. He was involved in the organization of the Great Exhibition of 1851, which showcased the achievements of the Industrial Revolution. Albert was also interested in social issues and humanitarian causes. He supported the abolition of slavery worldwide and advocated for peace and international cooperation. He was a patron of many charitable organizations and institutions. He also encouraged Victoria to be more responsive to public opinion and less partisan in her dealings with Parliament. Albert was a devoted husband and father. He enjoyed spending time with his family at their private residences such as Osborne House on the Isle of Wight and Balmoral Castle in Scotland. He also liked to pursue his hobbies such as music, painting, gardening, hunting, and riding. Albert's health began to decline in 1861 due to overwork and stress. He suffered from chronic stomach problems and insomnia. In December 1861, he contracted typhoid fever and died at Windsor Castle at the age of 42. His death plunged Victoria into a deep mourning that lasted for the rest of her life. She wore black for 40 years and withdrew from public life. She erected many monuments and memorials in honor of Albert's memory. Albert's legacy is still evident today in many aspects of British culture and society. He is remembered as a visionary prince who shaped the Victorian era and influenced the development of constitutional monarchy.