George II of Great Britain
King of Great Britain and Ireland, Elector of Hanover
"My God, I have no hope but in God and my brave English soldiers — let them advance."
Biography
George II was the last British monarch to personally command troops in battle, at Dettingen in 1743. Sword drawn, hat in hand, and reportedly unable to control his frightened horse, he nonetheless rallied his infantry under murderous French fire and turned near-encirclement into breakout. His reign saw British power expand globally, but his relationship with his son Frederick, Prince of Wales (who died before him) was a byword for Hanoverian family dysfunction. He detested Frederick the Great for abandoning the alliance in 1745.
Did you know?
George II's horse bolted at Dettingen; the King dismounted and fought on foot for much of the battle, which is why he is remembered as the last British king in battle rather than the last British king on horseback in battle
Key Battles
Battle of Dettingen
Habsburg Austria victoryJune 27, 1743 · 8,000 total casualties
Dettingen was a major propaganda victory for Britain and Austria, demonstrating the Pragmatic Alliance's fighting capacity. George II's personal courage, however accidental, became legendary. France declared formal war on Britain the following year.
Life Journey
Timeline
October 30, 1683
🌅 Birth
Born at Herrenhausen Palace, Hanover
June 11, 1727
📍 Posting
Accedes to throne of Great Britain on death of George I
June 27, 1743
⚔️ Battle
Battle of Dettingen — commands allied army in person, last British king in battle
October 25, 1760
✝️ Death
Dies at Kensington Palace; succeeded by grandson George III