When George IV’s only daughter died, the crown fell to his younger brother, William. As a teenager William was sent into the Royal Navy where he developed a strict sense of etiquette, earning him the future moniker “The Sailor King.” He also served in the American Revolutionary War –news of his presence apparently spawned an abortive plot by George Washington to kidnap the young prince. During the Napoleonic Wars, William became friendly with Lord Nelson, but once attaining a command of his own William proved unpopular among the men. His time in the Navy was marked by an endless parade of drinking and womanizing around the world. He rose in the ranks to attain a largely ceremonial title, Lord High Admiral, but he soon lost the respect of those around him and William was effectively forced to resign his post.

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