Museum ID: WNDRB : 1977.706
Edward had fallen in love with Mrs Wallace Simpson, an American divorcee. At the time, divorce though legal, was still frowned upon by society. After much debate, the King had to decide between his crown or Mrs Simpson. He chose her. Edward signed the documents of abdication on 10 December 1936. He carried out the last act of his reign the following day - ‘His Majesty's Declaration of Abdication Act 1936’ which made his abdication law. On the back of the mug is a quote from his abdication speech, broadcast on the radio to the nation on the night of 11th December 1936. the quote on the side of the mug reads - "You all know the reasons which have impelled me to renounce the throne…but you must believe me when I tell you that I have found it impossible to carry the burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as King as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love" The original speech is held in the The National Archives (United Kingdom) reference PC11/1.Measurements: 102 x 110
Materials: pottery
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