Col
d Knowledge: The Life of Prince Philip in Britain
Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, was one of the most remarkable figures in the British royal family. He was the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, and played a vital role in her reign as well as in the social and cultural fabric of the United Kingdom. Over his long and eventful life, Prince Philip has left an indelible mark on the nation through his unwavering commitment to public service, his sharp wit, and his love of adventure and exploration.
Born in Corfu, Greece, in 1921, Prince Philip was a member of the Greek and Danish royal families, and was educated in France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. During World War II, he served in the British Navy and saw active duty in the Mediterranean and the Pacific. It was during this time that he first met Princess Elizabeth, the future queen, and the two fell in love. They were married in 1947 in Westminster Abbey, and Prince Philip gave up his Greek and Danish titles to become a British subject and the Duke of Edinburgh.
From the very beginning of his marriage to Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip was a tireless supporter of her and embraced his royal duties with passion and commitment. He traveled extensively on behalf of the Crown, visiting more than 140 countries, and was a patron or member of over 800 organizations. He was particularly interested in promoting education, young people’s development, and conservation. The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, which he founded in 1956, has helped millions of young people worldwide to develop skills, confidence, and resilience, and to become engaged members of society.
Prince Philip was also known for his quick wit and unpretentious demeanor. He could put people at ease with his charm and humor, and was never afraid to speak his mind or offer a frank opinion. His quips and one-liners were legendary, and often made people laugh in unexpected ways. For example, when he was introduced to a group of British students in China in 1986, he remarked, “If you stay here much longer, you’ll all be slitty-eyed.”
Despite his many achievements and accolades, Prince Philip was not without controversy or criticism. He was accused of making insensitive and racist comments on occasion, and his role in the royal family was sometimes overshadowed by that of his wife and their children. Nevertheless, he remained a beloved figure among many ordinary Britons, who admired his courage, integrity, and sense of duty.
Prince Philip’s death on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99, was a moment of great sadness for the United Kingdom and beyond. His passing marked the end of an era and the loss of a remarkable figure who had touched the lives of millions. In the days and weeks that followed, tributes poured in from all corners of the world, praising his dedication to public service, his sense of humor, and his unwavering support for Queen Elizabeth and the royal family.
Looking back on Prince Philip’s life, it is clear that he was much more than just a member of the royal family. He was a man of great character, intelligence, and compassion, who devoted his life to serving others and making a difference in the world. He will be remembered not only as a loyal husband and father, but also as an inspiring leader, visionary, and friend to countless people around the world. In the words of Queen Elizabeth, he was her “strength and stay” for over 70 years, and his legacy will live on for generations to come.
