King George VI

Hello. My name is Albert, but my family called me Bertie. I was born a long time ago, on December 14th, 1895. I was a prince. But I did not think I would be king. My big brother was supposed to be the king. I was a little shy. Sometimes, when I talked, my words would get stuck. It made me feel nervous to talk in front of lots of people.

Then, one day, my country needed a new king. In the year 1936, that new king was me. I became King George VI. I knew a king had to speak to all the people. I worked very, very hard with a kind helper to make my voice strong. It was not easy, but I practiced every day. I wanted to be brave for my family and for everyone in our country.

Soon, a big war started in the year 1939. It was a very hard time for everyone. My wife, Queen Elizabeth, and I stayed in our home in London. We stayed even when it was dangerous. I talked on the radio to tell everyone to be strong and to stick together. I wanted to show them that their king was with them. I wanted them to know we would get through the hard times as friends.

I lived to be 56 years old. People remember me as a kind king who found his voice and led his country with courage. My time as king ended in the year 1952. Then, my wonderful daughter, Elizabeth, became the queen. I am so proud that I could help my people when they needed me most.