Prince Frederick, the Duke of York and Albany, was a prominent figure in British history. As the second son of King George III, he held various titles and responsibilities, including being a soldier in the British army and the Prince Bishop of Osnabrück. Despite never assuming the throne due to his untimely death, Prince Frederick played a crucial role in the military. Although initially inexperienced, he was appointed to high military posts and led several campaigns during the War of the First Coalition. Recognizing the need for reform, he implemented significant changes that revitalized the British military, ultimately defeating Napoleon’s shock troops. Additionally, Prince Frederick established the Royal Military College at Sandhurst, providing merit-based training for infantry and cavalry officers.
Quick Facts
- British Celebrities Born In August
- Also Known As: Frederick Augustus
- Died At Age: 63
- Family:
- Spouse/Ex-: Princess Frederica Charlotte of Prussia
- Father: George III of the United Kingdom
- Mother: Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz
- Siblings: Charles Griffiths, Ernest Augustus, George IV of the United Kingdom, King of Hanover
- Born Country: England
- Noblemen
- Military Leaders
- Died on: January 5, 1827
- Place of death: London, England
- City: London, England
- Diseases & Disabilities: Cardiovascular Disease
- Cause of Death: Dropsy
- More Facts:
- Awards: Knight Grand Cross of the Military Order of Maria Theresa, Knight Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath, Order of St. Alexander Nevsky, Order of St. Andrew
Childhood & Early Life
Born on 16 August 1763, at St. James’s Palace, London, Prince Frederick was the second son of King George III and Queen Charlotte. He had an older brother, George IV, but Frederick remained the king’s favorite son. He was christened at St James’ by the Archbishop of Canterbury, with his great uncle, uncle, and great-aunt as his godparents. At a young age, he was made the Prince-Bishop of Osnabrück, which provided him with a significant income until it was integrated with Hanover. He was also ordained as a Knight of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath and a Knight of the Order of the Garter.
Career
Prince Frederick was destined for a military career, and his father appointed him as a colonel. He attended the University of Göttingen in Hanover along with his brothers and lived there for several years. He held various military positions and achieved the rank of lieutenant general. In 1795, he was appointed as the commander-in-chief and made significant contributions to the British military. He led expeditions and campaigns, but also faced defeats and criticism from his subordinates. Despite these setbacks, he recognized the need for military reforms and implemented changes to strengthen the army. He also played a crucial role in defending the United Kingdom against France’s invasion.
Family & Personal Life
In 1791, Prince Frederick married Princess Frederica Charlotte of Prussia. However, their marriage was not happy, and they eventually separated. Frederick spent most of his time at Horse Guards and was known for his gambling habits, which led to financial troubles. He was also involved in a scandal related to his mistress, Mary Anne Clarke, but was eventually acquitted. He resigned from his post but was later reappointed as the commander-in-chief. Frederick’s niece, Princess Charlotte of Wales, died suddenly, making him second in line to the throne. He became the heir presumptive in 1820 after his father’s death. Frederick suffered from health issues and passed away in 1827 at the age of 63. He was buried at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle.