During the long reign of Queen Victoria, the British monarchy faced numerous political challenges, social transformations, and even threats to the Queen’s life. Among the most notable incidents were multiple assassination attempts, some of which occurred while she was accompanied by her beloved husband, Prince Albert. These attempts not only revealed the vulnerabilities of the British royal family during the 19th century but also showcased the bravery and composure of both Victoria and Albert in moments of danger. One particular incident stands out for its historical significance and the way it influenced public perception of the monarchy.
Background: Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
Queen Victoria ascended to the British throne in 1837 and married her first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, in 1840. Their marriage was one of mutual affection and partnership, with Albert playing a crucial role in advising the Queen on political matters and public affairs. The early years of Victoria’s reign were marked by tension between the Crown and elements of society that felt alienated by royal privilege and tradition. This discontent occasionally manifested in violent expressions, including assassination attempts on the monarch.
The Rise of Republican Sentiments
During the 1840s, Britain experienced a wave of political unrest. The Chartist movement, advocating for electoral reforms and greater rights for the working class, gained momentum. Although the movement was largely peaceful, the general climate of political agitation gave rise to extremist behavior from isolated individuals. It was in this environment that some sought to make a statement by attacking the symbol of the British monarchy Queen Victoria herself.
The 1840 Assassination Attempt
Just a few months after her marriage, on June 10, 1840, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were riding in an open carriage through London’s Constitution Hill. It was a routine public appearance, and the couple was met with the usual crowd of onlookers. Unbeknownst to them, a young man named Edward Oxford was lurking nearby with malicious intentions.
Edward Oxford’s Attack
Edward Oxford, a 17-year-old former bartender, approached the carriage and fired two pistols at the royal couple. Fortunately, neither shot hit its target. There were conflicting accounts about whether the pistols were loaded with real bullets, blanks, or even fired at all, but the act itself caused widespread alarm. Prince Albert was quick to shield Queen Victoria and remain composed in the face of danger.
Aftermath and Public Reaction
Oxford was immediately arrested and put on trial for high treason. During the proceedings, it was revealed that he had acted alone and was likely suffering from a mental illness. He was found not guilty by reason of insanity and sent to an asylum. The public, however, was shocked by the ease with which someone could get so close to harming the sovereign. Queen Victoria’s calm demeanor and Albert’s bravery were praised in newspapers across the country. The event solidified their image as a strong and united couple who remained undeterred by threats.
Other Attempts During Victoria’s Reign
The 1840 incident was just the first in a series of assassination attempts on Queen Victoria. Between 1840 and 1882, there were at least eight known attempts. Although not all of them involved Prince Albert directly, they contributed to the tightening of royal security and increased awareness of the Queen’s vulnerability during public appearances.
John Francis and Arthur O’Connor
In 1842, two attempts occurred just days apart. John Francis, frustrated by personal failures and inspired by Oxford’s notoriety, aimed to assassinate the Queen. His attempt failed, and he was arrested and sentenced to death, though the sentence was later commuted. Similarly, Arthur O’Connor attempted to approach the Queen’s carriage with a pistol and a petition. He was subdued before he could do harm and also faced severe punishment.
Impact on Security Protocols
These multiple attempts, especially those occurring when the Queen was with Prince Albert, led to a reevaluation of royal security. While the British monarchy prided itself on accessibility to the public, the reality of multiple threats made clear that precaution was necessary. The Queen’s security detail was increased, and routes for public appearances were more carefully planned and guarded.
Prince Albert’s Role and Influence
Prince Albert’s presence during the 1840 assassination attempt was more than symbolic. As the Queen’s closest confidant and adviser, he took personal interest in matters of royal safety and public presentation. He encouraged the royal household to adopt more modern approaches to public relations and security. His calm reaction during the assassination attempt strengthened his public image as a protective and capable consort.
Albert as a Moral and Political Guide
Beyond physical protection, Albert served as a stabilizing figure for the monarchy during turbulent times. His commitment to reform, education, and innovation made him a respected figure not just within the palace but also among intellectuals and reformers. He believed that the monarchy should evolve with the times, and the assassination attempts only reinforced his conviction that a more engaged and resilient royal presence was necessary.
Legacy of the Assassination Attempts
The attempted assassinations of Queen Victoria, especially the one in 1840 involving Prince Albert, had lasting effects on the British monarchy. These events led to a tightening of royal security and a shift in public attitudes toward the monarch. Rather than appearing as distant figures of privilege, Victoria and Albert came to be seen as relatable individuals who faced danger with grace and courage.
Strengthening the Monarchy
Ironically, rather than weakening the monarchy, these assassination attempts helped strengthen it. The Queen’s continued public appearances in spite of the threats were seen as acts of personal courage. Prince Albert’s role as both a protector and reformer only increased public admiration for the royal couple.
Public Symbolism and Enduring Memory
The image of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert bravely facing danger together became a symbol of stability and unity during a time of political and social upheaval. This narrative helped the monarchy maintain relevance and respect throughout the 19th century and beyond.
The assassination attempt on Queen Victoria in 1840, witnessed and braved by Prince Albert, was more than a dramatic footnote in royal history. It was a moment that tested the character of the British royal couple and revealed their steadfast commitment to duty. These incidents, rather than diminishing the monarchy, helped to humanize it in the eyes of the people. The bravery shown by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert remains a poignant example of resilience in the face of danger, and it helped shape the legacy of a monarchy that endured through some of Britain’s most transformative years.