EDWARD VIII: ABDICATION ADDRESS (RADIO)
Summary
In this speech, broadcast on BBC and carried by NBC, Edward (the former King Edward VIII) announces his abdication so that he can marry American divorcee, Wallis Warfield Simpson. A BBC announcer reads the text of Edward's abdication message delivered to the speaker of the House of Commons earlier that day and then introduces "Prince Edward." Speaking from Windsor Castle, Edward reveals that he has discharged his last duties as king, has been succeeded by his brother, George, and declares his allegiance to him. He states that he could not carry the heavy responsibilities of rule "without the help and support of the woman I love" and that the decision was his alone. He notes that it "may be some time before I return to my native land," but offers his services should the king require them.
Details
- NETWORK: NBC
- DATE: December 11, 1936 5:00 PM
- RUNNING TIME: 0:09:00
- COLOR/B&W: N/A
- CATALOG ID: R77:0063
- GENRE: Radio - Talk/Interviews
- SUBJECT HEADING: Abdication
- SERIES RUN: NBC - Radio, 1936
- COMMERCIALS: N/A
CREDITS
- Edward, Duke of Windsor (See also: Edward VIII, King of Great Britain) … Speaker
- Edward VIII, King of Great Britain (See also: Edward, Duke of Windsor
- George VI, King of Great Britain
- Simpson, Wallis Warfield (See also: Duchess of Windsor, The)