A study of relations between Britain and Austria as seen through personal and political connections between the families of Queen Victoria and Emperor Francis Joseph
John Van der Kiste Books
September 15, 1954
John Van der Kiste is a British author recognized for his extensive historical biographies and local history publications. His works delve into the intricate lives and eras of his subjects, often exploring lesser-known figures and events with meticulous research. Through his writings, he offers a compelling window into the past, bringing history to life for the contemporary reader. His ability to blend scholarly accuracy with accessible storytelling makes him a valued voice in historical literature.
This book explores key aspects of Queen Victoria's life through her roles with mentors, family, ministers, and servants. It highlights her close relationship with Albert and the tumultuous dynamics with her sons, as well as her favoritism towards Disraeli and aversion to Gladstone.
This biography of Xenia, sister of Nicholas II gives a new angle on the Romanov story and provides new information on relationships within the family after the Revolution. Important new letters and photographs are also included.
Queen Victoria's Children
- 229 pages
- 9 hours of reading
John Van der Kiste has made a particular study of British and European royalty. His previous books include William and Mary, Dearest Vicky, Darling Fritz, Kaiser Wilhelm II, The Romanovs, Once a Grand Duchess (with Coryne Hall) and Childhood at Court 1819-1914. He lives in Devon. --Book Jacket.
This book examines the downfall of James II, how the monarch came to forfeit the goodwill of the nation within three years.
Recounts the lives of the four women who married into the Victorian royal family: Alexandra of Denmark, Grand Duchess Marie of Russia, Louise of Prussia and Helen of Waldeck-Pyrmont.
This new book portrays the life and character of Good King Billy', one of Britain's most endearing sovereigns and down-to-earth Hanoverians.
Childhood at Court 1819-1914
- 195 pages
- 7 hours of reading
What was childhood like for the princes and princesses in the Victorian and Edwardian period? Here their education, recreation and general upbringing is discussed, from Queen Victoria's isolated and lonely childhood, to the children of King George V and Queen Mary. We see glimpses of Prince Waldemar of Prussia, who enjoyed collecting fossils on the Isle of Wight and terrifying his grandmother with a pet crocodile; Prince Christian Victor of Schleswig-Holstein, who was the first prince to attend public school despite enjoying cricket much more than education; and Prince Louis of Battenberg, who introduced the 'Katuf' into his family, and recorded his voice on a wax cylinder. Contrasts are drawn between childhood at the English court and that of the Queen's decendants at European capitals, as well as the differing attitudes of royal parents. For example, Queen Victoria found babies to be "very froglike", whereas Queen Alexandra still gave children's parties to her children when they were adults.
Im Sommer 1853 verliebt sich der damals 23-jährige Franz Josef, Kaiser von Österreich-Ungarn in seine Cousine Elisabeth und heiratet sie. Die Geschichte von der unglücklichen Kaiserin fasziniert die Menschen bis heute, und der Mythos Sisi prägt unser Bild von diesem Herrscher ebenso sehr, wie seine glücklose Politik, an deren Ende der Ausbruch des ersten Weltkriegs stand. Doch war war der Mensch Franz Josef? John van der Kiste zeichnet das Porträt eines Monarchen, der die tragischen Verluste seines Lebens mit stoischer Ruhe zu ertragen versuchte.
