The last king to have a beard was George V.
George V: The Last Bearded British Monarch
King George V holds the distinction of being the last monarch of the United Kingdom to sport a beard. He acquired his beard quite early in life, specifically during his time serving in the Royal Navy as a young man. This distinctive facial hair became a consistent feature throughout his reign.
The Royal Beard Tradition
While beards were once a common sight among European royalty, symbolizing authority and wisdom, fashion trends evolved over time. George V's successors chose to adopt a clean-shaven appearance, marking a departure from this long-standing tradition.
Successors Without Beards
Following King George V, neither of his direct successors maintained a beard during their time on the throne:
- Edward VIII: His brief reign saw a departure from the bearded look, with the monarch preferring to be clean-shaven.
- George VI: King George V's second son and the father of Queen Elizabeth II, also did not have a beard.
It is also worth noting that the "present Majesty" (referring to Queen Elizabeth II at the time the reference was written) does not have a beard, for obvious reasons related to gender.
Royal Beards: A Quick Overview
To clarify the lineage and beard status, here's a concise overview:
| Monarch | Beard Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| George V | Yes | Acquired early in the Navy; the last British King to wear a beard. |
| Edward VIII | No | Maintained a clean-shaven appearance throughout his short reign. |
| George VI | No | Also preferred a clean-shaven look. |
| Present Majesty | No | Refers to the current monarch, who, being female, does not have a beard. |
This historical detail offers a fascinating glimpse into the changing personal styles within the British monarchy over the last century.
