50 Facts About Princess Margaret, Countess Of Snowdon

Early Life and Family

Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon, was a fascinating figure in British royalty. Her life was filled with interesting events and notable achievements. Let's dive into some facts about her early years and family background.

1. Born on August 21, 1930, at Glamis Castle in Scotland, she was the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II.
2. Her full name was Margaret Rose Windsor.
3. She was the first royal baby born in Scotland since the 1600s.
4. Her father, King George VI, ascended the throne after the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII.
5. Margaret and Elizabeth were educated at home under the supervision of their mother and their governess, Marion Crawford.
6. During World War II, she and her sister spent much of their time at Windsor Castle for safety.

Royal Duties and Public Life

Margaret's role as a princess involved numerous public appearances and duties. She was known for her glamorous lifestyle and strong personality.

7. She became the first member of the royal family to be born in Scotland in over 300 years.
8. Margaret was known for her love of the arts and was a patron of several organizations, including the Royal Ballet.
9. She represented the Crown on various international tours, including visits to the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean.
10. In 1955, she was appointed to the Order of the British Empire as a Dame Grand Cross.
11. Margaret was also a member of the Privy Council of the United Kingdom.
12. She was known for her charitable work, supporting over 80 organizations during her lifetime.

Personal Life and Relationships

Margaret's personal life often made headlines, especially her relationships and marriage.

13. She fell in love with Group Captain Peter Townsend, a divorced man, which caused a scandal in the 1950s.
14. Due to the Church of England's stance on divorce, she ultimately decided not to marry Townsend.
15. In 1960, she married Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer, who was later given the title Earl of Snowdon.
16. The couple had two children: David, Viscount Linley, and Lady Sarah Chatto.
17. Margaret and Antony's marriage was troubled, leading to their separation in 1976 and eventual divorce in 1978.
18. She was the first senior member of the royal family to divorce since Princess Victoria Melita of Edinburgh in 1901.

Health Issues and Later Years

Margaret faced several health challenges throughout her life, particularly in her later years.

19. She was a heavy smoker, which contributed to her health problems.
20. In 1985, she had part of her left lung removed due to a cancerous growth.
21. She suffered a mild stroke in 1998 while on holiday in Mustique.
22. Margaret experienced another stroke in 2001, which affected her mobility and speech.
23. She passed away on February 9, 2002, at the age of 71, after suffering a third stroke.
24. Her funeral was held at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle, and she was cremated at Slough Crematorium.

Legacy and Influence

Despite her struggles, Margaret left a lasting impact on the British monarchy and popular culture.

25. She was known for her fashion sense and was considered a style icon of her time.
26. Margaret's life inspired various books, documentaries, and films, including her portrayal in the Netflix series "The Crown."
27. She was remembered for her wit, charm, and strong will.
28. Her support for the arts helped promote British culture and talent.
29. Margaret's life highlighted the challenges faced by royals in balancing personal desires with public duties.
30. Her legacy continues to influence discussions about the modern British monarchy.

Interesting Tidbits

Margaret's life was filled with unique and sometimes quirky facts that add to her intriguing persona.

31. She was an accomplished pianist and singer, often performing at private gatherings.
32. Margaret was known for her love of parties and social events, earning her the nickname "Party Princess."
33. She was the first royal to be born in the 20th century.
34. Margaret was a godmother to several children, including her niece, Princess Anne.
35. She had a close friendship with American actress Elizabeth Taylor.
36. Margaret was known for her sharp tongue and often made witty, sometimes cutting, remarks.
37. She was an avid collector of art and antiques, with a particular interest in Fabergé eggs.
38. Margaret was a skilled equestrian and enjoyed horse riding throughout her life.
39. She was a fan of the Beatles and even attended one of their concerts in the 1960s.
40. Margaret was known for her love of gardening and spent much time tending to her garden at Kensington Palace.

Final Years and Reflection

Margaret's final years were marked by reflection and a quieter lifestyle, but she remained a significant figure in the royal family.

41. She spent her later years living at Kensington Palace.
42. Margaret continued to support her charitable causes despite her declining health.
43. She maintained a close relationship with her sister, Queen Elizabeth II, throughout her life.
44. Margaret's children, David and Sarah, have continued her legacy of public service.
45. She was known for her resilience and ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
46. Margaret's life story serves as a reminder of the complexities faced by those in the public eye.
47. Her contributions to the arts and charity work are still remembered and celebrated.
48. Margaret's unique personality and life experiences have made her a subject of fascination for historians and royal enthusiasts.
49. She was known for her love of travel and visited numerous countries during her lifetime.
50. Margaret's enduring legacy is a testament to her strength, individuality, and dedication to her role as a princess.

A Final Glimpse at Princess Margaret's Legacy

Princess Margaret's life was a tapestry of royal duty, personal rebellion, and undeniable charm. From her groundbreaking fashion sense to her controversial love life, she carved a unique path within the royal framework. Her story isn't just about the glitz and glamour but also her struggles and the intense scrutiny she faced. Margaret's legacy is complex, marked by her contributions to the arts, her philanthropic efforts, and her role in modernizing the monarchy's image. Her life reminds us of the pressures of public life but also the possibilities within it. As we look back, Margaret's journey offers a fascinating insight into a woman who dared to be different, making her an enduring figure in royal history. Her spirit, style, and sincerity continue to captivate and inspire, proving that her legacy is as multifaceted as the princess herself.