After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal - Episode: Final Days of George III
Hosts: Anthony Delaney & Maddy Pelling
Release Date: April 24, 2025
Podcast Series: After Dark: Myths, Misdeeds & the Paranormal by History Hit
Introduction
In the episode titled "Final Days of George III," hosts Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling delve into the twilight years of King George III, exploring his reign's complexities, his descent into madness, and the enduring legacy he left behind. This detailed exploration offers listeners a nuanced portrait of a monarch often remembered for his mental struggles and the loss of the American colonies.
Historical Context and George III’s Reign
George III ascended to the British throne in 1760, reigning for nearly 60 years until his death in 1820. His reign encompassed significant historical milestones, including the American Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the French Revolution, and the Napoleonic Wars. These events not only shaped Britain but also had profound personal implications for George III.
Maddy Pelling [06:15]: "He sits across this immense period of history... He's known for two things, though, typically: his mental illness and the King that lost America."
George III: The Man Behind the Monarchy
Contrary to popular portrayals of George III as the "Mad King," Delaney and Pelling present a more multifaceted individual. Known affectionately as "Farmer George" for his interest in agriculture and astronomy, George III was intellectually curious and a patron of the sciences and arts. His marriage to Queen Charlotte was arranged, yet it bore 15 children, highlighting the complexities of royal familial relationships.
Maddy Pelling [07:06]: "He's the intellectually curious, experimenting, excited, passionate man... presiding over what becomes known as the Age of Enlightenment."
Descent into Madness
George III's mental decline is a central theme of the episode. The hosts discuss various episodes of his illness, starting notably in 1788-1789, characterized by symptoms such as rapid, incoherent speech, violent outbursts, and hallucinations. These episodes significantly impacted his ability to rule and strained his relationships within the royal household.
Anthony Delaney [21:21]: "He starts talking to people who aren't there, which is frightening for people at court because this is the head of state."
The duo explores the possible causes of his madness, including genetic factors like porphyria, dementia, and bipolar disorder, though they acknowledge the challenges in diagnosing historical figures accurately.
Impact of the American Revolution and Personal Losses
George III's reign was marked by the loss of the American colonies, a personal and political blow that contributed to his deteriorating mental state. The declaration of independence in 1776, with grievances directly targeting him, exacerbated his feelings of failure and frustration.
Maddy Pelling [14:17]: "He is the monarch who loses America as well... and it's one of the many blows against him that contribute to the deterioration of his mental state."
Additionally, the loss of several children, including Princess Amelia, and the strained relationship with his son, the future George IV, further deepened his personal anguish.
Treatment and Care
The episode provides insight into the medical treatments administered to George III, reflecting the limited understanding of mental health in the 18th century. Initial treatments included blistering, leeches, and cupping—methods meant to balance bodily humors but often exacerbated physical ailments.
Anthony Delaney [26:18]: "Charlotte intervenes... she changes the treatment plan and brings in Frances Willis, an expert in running asylums."
Under Queen Charlotte's influence, more humane approaches were adopted, focusing on calming activities and restraints like straitjackets. Despite these changes, George's condition continued to worsen, leading to his eventual seclusion and reliance on a select group of medical practitioners.
Final Years and Death
By 1810, George III's health had significantly declined—he was almost blind, and his mental faculties were severely impaired. The final years of his life were marked by isolation, with limited interaction with his family and increasing dependence on medical care.
Anthony Delaney [38:48]: "He is virtually blind as well at this point, so he can't literally see anyone who's visiting him."
George III died peacefully on January 29, 1820, from pneumonia, ending a reign that had seen the transformation of Britain into a modern empire.
Maddy Pelling [14:17]: "In the Royal Archives... he wrote in his journal, 'America is Lost!'"
Legacy and Conclusion
Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling conclude by reflecting on George III's legacy, emphasizing his role as a symbol of the decline of absolute monarchy and the transition toward a constitutional monarchy with more ceremonial duties. They argue that his reign encapsulates the complexities of a king struggling with personal demons amidst monumental historical changes.
Anthony Delaney [56:44]: "George's legacy is the manifestation... of the decline of majesty... where monarchy starts to become something that is an idea, a figurehead ahead of state lacks power, though not influence."
Maddy Pelling adds that modern perceptions of George III are influenced by historical narratives and popular culture, urging a reevaluation of his image to appreciate his multifaceted character fully.
Maddy Pelling [57:53]: "He is an incredibly interesting, nuanced, complicated monarch... a tragic, diminished figure."
Notable Quotes
- Maddy Pelling [14:17]: "In the Royal Archives... he wrote in his journal, 'America is Lost!'"
- Anthony Delaney [21:21]: "He starts talking to people who aren't there, which is frightening for people at court because this is the head of state."
- Maddy Pelling [57:53]: "He is an incredibly interesting, nuanced, complicated monarch... a tragic, diminished figure."
Conclusion
"Final Days of George III" offers a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of a monarch often overshadowed by his mental health struggles and political failures. Through engaging discussion and insightful analysis, Anthony Delaney and Maddy Pelling provide listeners with a deeper understanding of George III's personal and political challenges, painting a portrait of a king grappling with immense pressure and personal loss during a transformative period in history.
Join the Conversation:
Listeners are encouraged to share their thoughts on George III's legacy and nominate other historical figures for future "Final Days" episodes by emailing afterdark@historyhit.com.
This summary captures the essence of the "Final Days of George III" episode, highlighting key discussions, insights, and notable quotes to provide a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the podcast.