Georgian era

The Georgian era was a period of British history from 1714 to 1830 (often extended to 1837) that saw immense social, political, and cultural change, including the Industrial Revolution and the expansion of the British Empire. It is named after the four successive Hanoverian kings, all named George: George I, George II, George III, and George IV.  Key Monarchs The era was defined by the reigns of the first four Hanoverian monarchs:  George I (reigned 1714–1727): The first Hanoverian king, he was German-born and spoke little English, relying heavily on his ministers, which led to the development of the modern system of cabinet government and the de facto position of Prime Minister (first held by Robert Walpole). George II (reigned 1727–1760): The last British monarch to lead an army into battle, his reign saw Britain's global expansion, often through conflict with France, which included the Seven Years' War. George III (reigned 1760–1820): The first Hanoverian king born in England, his long reign was marked by the American War of Independence and the Napoleonic Wars. He suffered from debilitating mental illness, leading to the Regency period. George IV (reigned 1820–1830, Regent from 1811): Known for his extravagant lifestyle, he was a patron of the arts and fashion, though his spending was often criticized. His regency period (1811-1820) is a distinct sub-period known as the Regency era.  The period is often considered to have concluded with the death of George IV's brother and successor, William IV (reigned 1830-1837), after which the Victorian era began.