Royal Matrimony: Princess Margaret's Memorable Wedding

Who did Princess Margaret marry?

Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, married Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer and filmmaker, on May 6, 1960, at Westminster Abbey. Their marriage was a grand affair, attended by many members of the royal family and other dignitaries. However, the marriage was not a happy one, and the couple divorced in 1978.

Princess Margaret's marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones was a significant event in British history. It was the first time that a member of the royal family had married a commoner since the 16th century. The marriage was also seen as a sign of the changing times, as it showed that the royal family was becoming more modern and less traditional.

Despite the difficulties in her marriage, Princess Margaret remained a popular figure with the British public. She was known for her glamorous lifestyle and her sense of humor. She died in 2002 at the age of 71.

Princess Margaret's Marriage

Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, married Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer and filmmaker, on May 6, 1960, at Westminster Abbey.

• Date: May 6, 1960
• Location: Westminster Abbey
• Groom: Antony Armstrong-Jones
• Children: Two children, David and Sarah
• Divorce: 1978
• Reason for divorce: Antony Armstrong-Jones's infidelity
• Death: Princess Margaret died in 2002 at the age of 71.

Princess Margaret's marriage was a significant event in British history. It was the first time that a member of the royal family had married a commoner since the 16th century. The marriage was also seen as a sign of the changing times, as it showed that the royal family was becoming more modern and less traditional.

Despite the difficulties in her marriage, Princess Margaret remained a popular figure with the British public. She was known for her glamorous lifestyle and her sense of humor.

Date

May 6, 1960, was a significant date in the life of Princess Margaret. It was the day she married Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer and filmmaker. The marriage was a grand affair, attended by many members of the royal family and other dignitaries.

• Historical Context: Princess Margaret's marriage was the first time that a member of the royal family had married a commoner since the 16th century. The marriage was seen as a sign of the changing times, as it showed that the royal family was becoming more modern and less traditional.
• Personal Significance: For Princess Margaret, the marriage was a chance to find happiness and love. She had been in love with Antony Armstrong-Jones for several years, and they had a strong relationship.
• Public Interest: The marriage of Princess Margaret was a major news event. It was covered extensively by the media, and it was a topic of conversation for people all over the world.
• Legacy: Princess Margaret's marriage had a lasting impact on the royal family. It showed that the royal family was willing to change with the times, and it helped to modernize the monarchy.

In conclusion, May 6, 1960, was a significant date in the life of Princess Margaret. It was the day she married Antony Armstrong-Jones, and it was a day that had a lasting impact on the royal family.

Location

Westminster Abbey holds a significant place in the annals of British history, serving as the traditional venue for royal coronations and weddings. Its grandeur and historical significance made it the ideal setting for Princess Margaret's marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones on May 6, 1960.

• Symbolism and Tradition: Westminster Abbey represents the heart of the British monarchy and the Church of England. Choosing this location for her wedding, Princess Margaret aligned herself with centuries of royal tradition, adding to the prestige and grandeur of the occasion.
• Historical Significance: The Abbey has witnessed countless royal weddings, including the coronations of Queen Elizabeth II and her father, King George VI. By holding her wedding at Westminster Abbey, Princess Margaret connected her marriage to a long and illustrious lineage of British monarchs.
• Architectural Splendor: The Abbey's awe-inspiring Gothic architecture provided a breathtaking backdrop for the wedding ceremony. Its vaulted ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and majestic organ music created an atmosphere of solemnity and grandeur that befitted the occasion.
• Public Accessibility: Despite its royal associations, Westminster Abbey is also a public church, open to visitors from all walks of life. This accessibility allowed members of the public to witness Princess Margaret's wedding, sharing in the joy and celebration of the royal family.

In conclusion, the choice of Westminster Abbey as the location for Princess Margaret's marriage was not merely a matter of convenience but a carefully considered decision steeped in symbolism, tradition, and historical significance. It served to elevate the occasion, connect it to the rich tapestry of British monarchy, and provide a memorable setting for a royal wedding that captured the imagination of the nation.

Groom

Antony Armstrong-Jones was a significant figure in the life of Princess Margaret. He was a photographer and filmmaker, and he was the first commoner to marry into the British royal family in over 400 years. His marriage to Princess Margaret was a major event, and it had a lasting impact on the royal family.

Armstrong-Jones was born in London in 1930. He studied photography at the Central School of Arts and Crafts, and he began his career as a fashion photographer. In 1958, he met Princess Margaret at a dinner party, and they began dating soon after. The couple married in 1960, and they had two children together, David and Sarah.

Armstrong-Jones was a controversial figure. He was known for his flamboyant lifestyle, and he was often photographed in the company of celebrities and socialites. He was also accused of having affairs, and his marriage to Princess Margaret was often strained. The couple divorced in 1978, and Armstrong-Jones married again in 1986.

Despite the difficulties in their marriage, Armstrong-Jones remained an important part of Princess Margaret's life. He was a close confidant, and he was often seen at her side at public events. He died in 2017 at the age of 86.

Armstrong-Jones's marriage to Princess Margaret was a watershed moment in British history. It showed that the royal family was willing to change with the times, and it helped to modernize the monarchy. Armstrong-Jones was a complex and controversial figure, but he was also a talented photographer and filmmaker. His work continues to be admired today.

Children

The birth of Princess Margaret's two children, David and Sarah, was a significant event in her life and marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones. Their arrival brought joy and stability to the couple and strengthened their bond.

David was born in 1961, and Sarah was born in 1964. Both children were born at Clarence House, the London residence of Princess Margaret and her husband. Their births were celebrated with great fanfare and public interest, as they were the first grandchildren of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

Princess Margaret was a devoted mother, and she doted on her children. She often took them on outings and spent time playing with them. She was also very involved in their education and upbringing.

The birth of David and Sarah had a positive impact on Princess Margaret's marriage. It gave her a new sense of purpose and responsibility, and it helped to bring her and her husband closer together.

However, the marriage between Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was not without its difficulties. The couple had different personalities and interests, and they often clashed. In 1978, they divorced.

Despite the divorce, Princess Margaret remained close to her children. She was a loving and supportive mother, and she was always there for them.

The birth of Princess Margaret's children was a significant event in her life and marriage. It brought her great joy and stability, and it helped to strengthen her bond with her husband.

Divorce

The divorce of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1978 was a significant event in the history of the British royal family. It was the first divorce of a senior royal since the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936, and it sent shockwaves through the establishment.

There were many factors that contributed to the breakdown of Princess Margaret's marriage. One of the most significant was the couple's different personalities and interests. Princess Margaret was a free-spirited and independent woman, while Armstrong-Jones was more traditional and reserved. They also had different social circles, and they often spent time apart.

Another factor that contributed to the divorce was Armstrong-Jones's infidelity. He had a number of affairs during the marriage, which caused Princess Margaret great pain and humiliation. The couple also had different parenting styles, which led to conflict.

The divorce of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was a difficult and painful experience for both parties. However, it also showed that the royal family was willing to change with the times. The divorce paved the way for other royal divorces, and it helped to modernize the monarchy.

The divorce of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones is a reminder that even the most seemingly perfect marriages can end in divorce. It is important to remember that divorce is sometimes the best option for a couple, and that it is nothing to be ashamed of.

Reason for divorce

Antony Armstrong-Jones's infidelity was a major factor in the breakdown of his marriage to Princess Margaret. The couple had been married for 18 years, and they had two children together. However, Armstrong-Jones had a number of affairs during the marriage, which caused Princess Margaret great pain and humiliation.

Infidelity is one of the most common reasons for divorce. It can be very difficult to forgive a partner who has been unfaithful, and it can damage the trust and intimacy in a relationship. In Princess Margaret's case, Armstrong-Jones's infidelity was the final straw in a marriage that was already struggling.

The divorce of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was a high-profile event, and it sent shockwaves through the British establishment. It was the first divorce of a senior royal since the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936. The divorce showed that the royal family was willing to change with the times, and it helped to modernize the monarchy.

Infidelity is a serious issue that can have a devastating impact on a marriage. If you are struggling with infidelity in your relationship, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you to understand the causes of infidelity and to develop strategies for coping with it.

Death

The death of Princess Margaret in 2002 marked the end of an era in British history. She was the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, and her marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960 was a major event that captured the attention of the world. Their marriage was a significant departure from tradition, as Armstrong-Jones was a commoner. The couple had two children, David and Sarah, but their marriage was often strained due to Armstrong-Jones's infidelity.

Princess Margaret's death was a sad event for the royal family and the British people. She was a popular figure, and her death was widely mourned. Her death also marked the end of a generation of royals who had played a significant role in British history.

The death of Princess Margaret is a reminder of the fragility of life. It is also a reminder of the importance of family and friends. Princess Margaret was surrounded by her family and friends in her final days, and she died peacefully in her sleep. Her death is a reminder that we should cherish the time we have with our loved ones.

FAQs about Princess Margaret's Marriage

This section addresses frequently asked questions surrounding Princess Margaret's marriage, providing informative answers to enhance understanding of its significance and legacy.

Question 1: When did Princess Margaret get married?

Answer: Princess Margaret married Antony Armstrong-Jones on May 6, 1960, at Westminster Abbey in London.

Question 2: Who was Princess Margaret's husband?

Answer: Princess Margaret's husband was Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer and filmmaker.

Question 3: How many children did Princess Margaret have?

Answer: Princess Margaret had two children with Antony Armstrong-Jones: David, born in 1961, and Sarah, born in 1964.

Question 4: When did Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones divorce?

Answer: Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones divorced in 1978.

Question 5: What was the reason for Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones's divorce?

Answer: The reason for their divorce was Antony Armstrong-Jones's infidelity.

Question 6: When did Princess Margaret die?

Answer: Princess Margaret died on February 9, 2002, at the age of 71.

Summary: Princess Margaret's marriage was a significant event in British royal history, as it marked a departure from tradition with her marrying a commoner. Despite the challenges and eventual divorce, her marriage had a lasting impact on the royal family and society.

Transition: To delve deeper into the life and legacy of Princess Margaret, explore the following sections.

Conclusion

Princess Margaret's marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones was a watershed moment in British royal history, reflecting a changing society and the evolution of the monarchy. Their union challenged conventional norms, as Armstrong-Jones was the first commoner to marry a senior royal in centuries.

Despite the challenges and eventual dissolution of their marriage, Princess Margaret's experience left an indelible mark. It demonstrated the monarchy's willingness to adapt to modern sensibilities while preserving its traditions. The marriage also humanized the royal family, making them more relatable to the public.

Princess Margaret's legacy continues to inspire discussions about the role and relevance of the monarchy in contemporary society. Her marriage to Armstrong-Jones remains a significant chapter in the ongoing story of the British royal family.