28 January 2017
The first 33,000 pages of the Georgian Papers Programme are now available online, giving the public and scholars alike a unique window into the life, reign and times of King George III, his impact then and his continuing influence on today’s world. This marks a major milestone in the five year project which will see over 350,000 pages of historical documents digitised, giving an unprecedented level of access to the entire collection of Georgian Archives, housed at Windsor Castle. A specially commissioned BBC Two documentary George III – The Genius of the Mad King also follows the early phases of the project, which viewers can see on Monday 30 January at 9pm.
The first 33,000 pages of the Georgian Papers Programme are now available online , giving the public and scholars alike a unique window into the life, reign and times of King George III, his impact then and his continuing influence on today’s world. This marks a major milestone in the five year project which will see over 350,000 pages of historical documents digitised, giving an unprecedented level of access to the entire collection of Georgian Archives, housed at Windsor Castle. A specially commissioned BBC Two documentary George III – The Genius of the Mad King also follows the early phases of the project, which viewers can see on Monday 30 January at 9pm.
King’s is leading the programme, officially launched by Her Majesty the Queen in April 2015, working in partnership with the Royal Archives and Royal Collection Trust and primary partners in the US, the Omohundro Institute of Early American History & Culture and the William and Mary College with support from the Sons of the American Revolution.
Researchers from History , English , Music , and War Studies have worked with archivists and used 21st century technology to transfer online the documents, shining new light, colour and context on history and bringing new insights to, a complex, engaged polymath and highly informed Monarch.
Over the next four years, the Georgian Papers Programme promises to reveal many more dimensions to Britain’s longest reigning King and his family.
In Phase II of the Georgian Papers Programme, a further 17,000 papers from the early Georgian period have now been digitally scanned and published online, making a total of 50,000 pages publicly accessible so far
The papers include financial accounts relating to the Coronation of George I, and the ceremonial booklet detailing those assembled to greet the new King in procession on his arrival from Holland. Also released is the precise expenditure of the Civil List in 1747-48 under George II which outlines, amongst other things, the costs of transporting rebels to America.
All images credit: Royal Collection Trust & Royal Archives / (c) Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 2017
Interested in learning more about 18th Century studies at King’s? Check out the joint King’s and British Museum MA in 18th Century Studies which draws upon both the skills of scholars from the entire Faculty of Arts and Humanities alongside those of senior Museum staff. Read more about King’s contribution to the Programme online.