Today In History with The Retrospectors Rebranding the Royal Family
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Jul 17, 2025 Discover the fascinating tale of how the British royal family transformed their identity to Windsor in 1917, distancing themselves from their German roots amid World War I. Explore the societal impact of anti-German sentiment on public perception and the royal family's struggle to maintain relevance. Uncover King George V's clever public relations strategies and the flawed responses from institutions like the Royal Albert Hall. This riveting discussion highlights the delicate balance of tradition and perception in times of crisis.
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Royal Family Name Change
- George V changed the British royal family name from Saxe-Coburg to Windsor in 1917 due to strong anti-German sentiment during WWI.
- The name Windsor had no negative associations and was linked to British monarchy, making it a strategic rebranding choice.
Royal Family's German Roots Problem
- The British royal family was originally seen as German, with ties across many European monarchies.
- The bombing by the German Göta bomber, sharing a similar name, worsened the family's public image during WWI.
Anti-German Sentiment in Britain
- Anti-German sentiment in Britain escalated during WWI, including bans on German music and cultural discrimination.
- Even popular cultural staples like German music faced backlash amid the war-induced Germanophobia.
