Empire
15. The Last Viceroy of India
Nov 1, 2022
In this engaging conversation, historian Alex von Tunzelmann shares insights on Lord Louis Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India. She unveils the complexities of his glamorous marriage to Edwina Ashley and his intertwined relationships with key figures like Nehru and Jinnah. Topics include the fraught political landscape leading to India's independence, the personal motivations affecting historical events, and the tensions surrounding the partition. Von Tunzelmann's expertise sheds light on how personal dynamics shaped a nation during turbulent times.
56:26
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Quick takeaways
- Lord Mountbatten and his wife Edwina Ashley were seen as celebrities and their marriage symbolized the union of class and wealth in Britain.
- Mountbatten's excellent people skills and connections earned him the position of Supreme Allied Commander of Southeast Asia during World War II, despite his questionable military successes.
Deep dives
Lord Mountbatten and Edwina Ashley: A Glamorous Celebrity Marriage
Lord Mountbatten, the last viceroy of India, and his wife Edwina Ashley were seen as celebrities of their time. Their lavish wedding was attended by royalty and celebrities, highlighting their social significance in Britain. Mountbatten, despite his German origins, was considered completely British and had a naval background. Edwina came from great wealth and was possibly the wealthiest heiress of her time. Their marriage was a celebrity union, combining class and wealth, much like a Jane Austen novel.
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