This children’s article, On this day in history: The British Royal Family changes its name, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children build vocabulary, learn about World War I history, and understand why family names can be powerful symbols. Written by Mark Pulley, a teacher and writer who creates fun and informative news articles for English learners.
A royal name with German roots
Back in 1917, during World War I, the British Royal Family had a very different name. They were known as the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, a name with clear German origins. This was because Queen Victoria had married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840. Their children and grandchildren carried the name proudly for many years.
But things changed quickly when war broke out.
Britain at war with Germany
World War I was a time of great tension. Britain and its allies were fighting against Germany, and many people in the UK began to feel suspicious or angry toward anything associated with Germany. The Royal Family’s name suddenly seemed like a problem. Some newspapers and citizens even wondered if the King was “too German” to rule Britain fairly.
At the same time, German bombers called Gotha planes were flying over British cities, dropping bombs and causing fear. One terrible attack killed 18 schoolchildren in London. The name “Gotha” became a symbol of destruction, and unfortunately, it sounded just like part of the Royal Family’s name.
A big royal decision
King George V, who was Queen Victoria’s grandson, realised he had to do something. He didn’t want people to lose trust in the monarchy. So, on 17 July 1917, he made an official announcement: the Royal Family would now be called the House of Windsor.
Why Windsor? It’s the name of the famous castle west of London where the Royal Family often stayed. It sounded strong, simple, and very British.
The change worked. People began to feel more confident in their King again, and the name Windsor became a proud symbol of the British monarchy.
Article vocabulary list
- Monarchy – a system where a country is ruled by a king or queen
- Suspicious – feeling unsure or doubtful about someone’s trustworthiness
- Symbol – something that stands for or represents a bigger idea
- Proclamation – an official public announcement
- Allies – countries that work together in war or conflict
- Tension – a feeling of stress or unease
- Loyal – being true and faithful
- Destruction – serious damage or ruin
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. What was the Royal Family’s name before it became Windsor?
A) House of Hanover
B) House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
C) House of Stuart
Answer: B) House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
2. Why did the King decide to change the Royal Family’s name?
A) Because he didn’t like how it sounded
B) To avoid confusion with other royal families
C) To distance the family from Germany during the war
Answer: C) To distance the family from Germany during the war
3. What was Windsor Castle used for?
A) A prison
B) A royal residence
C) A battlefield
Answer: B) A royal residence
4. What kind of aircraft caused fear during the war?
A) Spitfires
B) Gotha bombers
C) Zeppelins
Answer: B) Gotha bombers
5. Who did Queen Victoria marry?
A) King George V
B) Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
C) Kaiser Wilhelm II
Answer: B) Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha
Mark is a writer and EFL teacher from England with eight years’ experience. He’s passionate about travel, sport (especially football), animals, nature, and history, and enjoys helping children explore the world through language and learning.
