Thank you everyone for your continued support. Remember this is our channel, so it is important for me to know who you would like to see and your opinion on the people we cover. Hope you enjoy this one. So few pictures available on her, so hope you enjoy the narrative and the cutting together of videos and images from the day. Let me know ❤❤
Good heavens - just thrown the tea towel down at 10am and sitting down with a coffee watching this, my secret - nobody home 🙂. Again, thank you so much. Enjoying from Melbourne, Australia.
Thank you for providing these extremely well done documentaries. It is not enough to title them videos because they are so well researched and expansive for that. Take a bow, you did a fantastic job! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Those letters revealed that David had long had the desire to leave,what he asked Freda to do,he did with wallace. Wallace got herself stuck with him. A well told story.🎉
He was a man child, which was to be expected growing up with the strictures of the royal family. These sad relationships became difficult to watch after a while. It would be marvellous to hear of marriages that survived through love, loyalty and understanding, is there such a thing?
Thank you for this fascinating story. The Prince was the master of his own fate, just as we all are. According to this account and so many others, he was an emotionally immature and needy person. I think Freda is rather admirable, in many ways, certainly in terms of her service to the poor but also in her private life. She lived her life on her own terms, which shows courage, especially for a woman in that era. She also appears to have tried to protect her children from the worst effects of their parents' hedonistic life style.
To the extent that anyone could “save” Edward - crippled as he was by his own character - Freda probably could have done it. But she deserved so much more than what he could offer her. Better for Wallis to get stuck with him. 🩵 Lovely video. Great work!
This is another one of those people I never had heard of before. Every Saturday I so look forward to seeing our videos and learning more about women in history. I know whoever it is, I’m going to love it, and confess I rarely ask for a subject because no matter who it is, your videos are a chef’s kiss of perfection. Thank you again for being my Saturday night date ❤
What a life. Edward was always a child and dependent on others and I see her as enabling but smart enough not to commit. Facilitating story as always. Thank you
A wonderful deep video. Edward was a bit of a stalker with women, and I thank goodness he never became our king. I have always felt he did the same stalking with Wallis Simpson until she gave in. He was such a weak man.
Thank you for this deep and complete portrait of Freda Dudley Ward. I had known something of her by reading various biographies of Edward and Wallis but I never got so much depth as this video. Very intriguing and a woman to truly admire! Thank you.
I "absolutely," loved this biography about this phenomenal woman, Freda Dudley Ward. I've always been more interested in what legacy a person leaves behind in their lives, not just wealth and fame. I had never heard of Freda Dudley Ward before seeing your outstanding biography of her, I appreciate the meticulous research that you always bring to your subscribers every week. I loved her philosophy on life don't dwell on the past its over concentrate on now and the future, period! Great investigation, presentation, backstories, illustrations and photos, too. Take care 🦋
Having stuck it out nearly to the end,` I had to stop and think. Edward VIII was, as his father predicted, ruined by his own hand. He was the utmost example of spoiled privilege. He had "mommy issues" with at least a dash of "daddy" on top. I think his most compelling quote was when he picked up a copy of Emily Bronte's most recent work, saying, "Who are these bront people anyway?" Being out of touch with reality had a mannequin for the part.
Wow, no one and I mean no one can tell a story like you on youtube. I fall asleep listening to your prose. Will you ever do Huguette Clarke? Please please.
I have Been waiting for a year on Huguette Clark, but since she was a recluse, not many photos are out there. She got married and divorce faster than the speed of light, so no photos of her husband either. Freda story made me fall asleep, I mean go thru life looking for love at every corner; nymphomaniac.
@@twilightpurpleglow I liked Freda's story a lot. It gave me good insight into the psychology of Edward and what happened to him. I think if anyone can tell the story of Huguette, it is Mythic Women, they did a great job here, and there are only like 7 photos of Freda. Though I can't complain, cause I asked for Jennie Jerome for ages as well, and finally got it end of last year.
Yes, he was also abused as a child by his Nanny. When another Nanny found him covered in bruises the first nanny who was very close with Edward was dismissed, she took her own life a few weeks later.
I never knew how deep this relationship was and unlike Simpson this story is so tragic. Not sure why. Edward and his siblings were treated badly by their parents in my opinion and I think that’s why he and George married such take charge women. However I really don’t think Simpson deeply loved Edward like Elizabeth loved George or even as much as Frita loved Edward
I think both Queen Mary and King George were reacting to their own childhoods. Queen Mary's mother, Princess Mary Adelaide of Cambridge, was a loving parent but also a serial spendthrift, which required the family to live in Italy to save money. King George's father was a womanizer whose dalliances humiliated his mother Princess Alexandra of Denmark and infuriated Queen Victoria. Perhaps their stern child rearing was a reaction to, and an attempt to preclude scandel in the future.
I am new to this channel and the video on Freda Dudley Ward was so interesting and well-structured. I look forward to watching and learning more! Ann Marie from USA.
Two suggestions: Sheila Chisholm (Lady Loughborough. Lady Milbanke, Princess Dmitri Alexandrovich of Russia) - yes, the Sheila mentioned in this video. The other remarkable story is Sheila's mother: Dame Alice Chisholm, known as the mother of Kantara in WW1
If it’s not too overwhelming, I have a list: the Bletchley girls, the female Bright Young Things, the women of the Happy Set, and the Dollar Princesses. Or, anyone you consider mythic!
56:45 Great work, one detail though - Wallis never demanded nor wanted to be married to Edward. She was still in love with her husband Ernest and the affair with Edward was a plot by the married couple to gain prestige and affluence in higher cycles, they needed money and power at the time. There are letters from Wallis to Edward where she begs him not to abdicate as she doesn't want to get married to him, as well as letters to her still husband that she is afraid that this affair went way too far and she regrets it all. She didn't want to get divorced from Ernest and was forced to do it after Edward abdicated for her publicly from the position of king. If she didn't divorce and then married Edward after that public statement she would be finishing in any society - it was a blackmail, not to mention that public display of love to a still married woman (she got divorced next year) was literally obliterating the marriage of Ernest and Wallis and she could not go back to that either. Ernest at that point had no choice but to divorce her, he was kind to get divorced on pretences of his indiscretion, where he could have easily blamed her in court. Most likely he was handsomely paid for avoiding dragging the ex king into public divorce proceedings. Ernest at the time also was losing interest in Wallis as Edward was way too demanding not leaving much time and attention from Wallis for him. He started an affair himself with his future wife Mary Raffray (he got married the same year as Wallis). Ernest and Wallis continued to correspond after her new marriage and she was pouring regret and declaring love to Ernest there. At that time his ex husband was romantically not interested in her anymore, although still cared for her platonically.
Thank you for another fascinating episode. I’m not a fan of the British monarchy or elites but enjoyed hearing about Freya. She was a wildcat! Can’t deny she had fun times. George was spoiled and a Na^i sympathizer. Parties, his wealth, and a mommy substitute made his life sweet. Freda evolved and understood the pain regular people experienced.
Well you can have all the wealth in the world but true love and happiness cannot be bought. Freda bed-hopping sure bothers me, rich, educated and miserable. Her two daughters in the care of nannies while she went out to have fun. Poor Mr Dudley Ward made to look like a fool for so many years; to take the fall at the end of their marriage. As for Michael Herbert, another poor soul died so young and so in love with Freda, that was sad. He was the great love of her life? I think she did not know "true love". She could have go on to marry Prince Edward, who knows maybe be a Queen one day. But that would not have made her happy either. My personal opinion; Freda did not know what she wanted in life.
No, just like Wallis Simpson, Freda would never have been allowed to marry Edward as she would have to divorce her husband to do so, and divorce was not accepted as a Queen.
@twilightpurpleglow I disagree completely with your assessment of Freda. I think it is the opposite: she knew exactly what she wanted and lived life on her own terms. She obviously was not needy like the men she was involved with therefore emotionally stable. I admire her and see her as a role model for women who aren't afraid to sleep wirh whom they wish, pursue worthwhile goals, and not care a fig what society or the church thought of them. Obviously she was a good mother who adored her children and grandchildren and they her. I betcha Mr. Dudley Ward was also having affairs and had the times permitted it they would have divorced early on each to pursue a less dishonest life. I say "dishonest" not in terms that they hid their affairs from each other but rather how society with its restrictive rules does not allow people to live authentic lives.
“She carried the weight underneath the weight of her families wealth”. Seriously? I’m not frowning on wealth but every family has expectations.David kept his life safe by playing with married women. They could have no hold on him. You’re really making this a romance when it was and protecting his position.
Thank you for your comment. I appreciate your perspective, though I must clarify a few points. Firstly, I am not trying to romanticize or reframe Freda Dudley Ward’s relationship with David (the future Edward VIII) beyond what the historical narrative presents. My goal is to tell a story using the available evidence, including David's own letters, which are well-documented and provide insight into his emotions and intentions during that time. If you’re interested, I highly recommend the book Letters From a Prince by Rupert Godfrey, which offers a comprehensive collection of his correspondence and sheds light on his mindset. Secondly, I find it frustrating when people conflate historical storytelling with personal opinion. I strive to present the complexities of these figures-their flaws, contradictions, and humanity-without imposing a bias. History is rarely straightforward, and relationships like David and Freda’s are layered with personal and societal nuances. As for your point about David’s motivations and his preference for married women, that’s a valid interpretation. However, the letters suggest that his connection with Freda was more than a mere convenience. Whether their relationship was a calculated move to protect his position or a genuine romance (or perhaps both) is a matter of perspective, which I leave open to viewers to interpret. I hope this clears up any misunderstanding. My intention is to share these stories as accurately and thoughtfully as possible, encouraging curiosity and discussion rather than reaching definitive conclusions
I love all your work, as you know. I felt empathy for her. Bed jumping was/is something men do all the time . Particularly in Freda"s time. Courage, passion, love, and bravery were her driving forces in my humble opinion. She made mistakes, but who doesn't. Wonderful work. What a boring world it would be without risk takers and the pursuit of things one loves. Great pick!!. I'll never win a quiz😂. Thank you again for all your hard work. ❤ 5 🌟.
Freida was an amazing woman. She must have had huge magnetism to have several men madly in love with her as well as her ability to spearhead charity and building projects. She was obviously too savvy to devote herself exclusively to the weak-willed Edward. As a British nobleman remarked not too long ago, the UK should erect a statue to Wallis Simpson for ridding them of a most unsuitable king.
"Brendon Bracken" (a most intriguing personal story) and one that caused ke to remind myself: "Other's life stories, as well as our own, being positive or negative, successful or lacking, a struggle or inspiring, all hinge on "Perspective". Like the shapes viewed through a kaleidoscope, that change with a degree of adjustment, are highly influenced by the author of the information describing the individual and their experiences. Be that author, oneself or another, to realize this understanding truly moves one into a state of Wisdom. For, ... "it is a major key to what we experience", as the "Universal Law of Attraction" is Absolute. ... we each are Creating our own Reality Experiences and there are infinite potentials. We each/all can always look Young, "our cells responding to what we (think, feel, and believe)". Quantum Physics Science fact. Beth Bartlett Sociologist/Behavioralist and Historian
As always, i learned many things i hadnt heard before. Its hard not to wonder if Freda had stayed with Prince of Wales vs Wallis Simpsons influence on him. Freda would likely have been the woman behind a much more successful prince i think. Maybe 😂. All i do know is they all sure got around.
@@fuchurZero It is stated as fact. One of the reasons I like this channel, is they do not put their own opinion into the videos and try and castigate people for their actions. There was no sugar coating, and people in those days were not allowed to get divorced, her husband committed numerous affairs too. Why do you always have to blame the women, when the laws at that time, favored the men. Seriously, no offense, but learn history and stop judging people 120 years ago as if they had modern freedoms.
Edward could not have been weaker or more co-dependant if he tried. I couldnt have stood being around him for five minutes. He should have been sent into exile even if he hadnt met Wallis.
This was fun and informative. Since you asked who else we'd like to see covered by your channel, I think Tina Cordova, Loyda Martinez and Bernice Guitierrez would be interesting subjects.
Edward VII always struck me as a boy - spoiled and petulant, he was used to getting his way. I don't envy him the role he was born to, but without choice he managed to act irresponsibly within the small circle of agency he did have. He must have been exhausting. I can't truly imagine any of the women actually loving the person he was, only the spot in society he gave them. A very empty life for all of them, attempting to drown their sorrows in cocktails and meaningless sex.
Thank you for A captivating story I am listening from South Africa. For me David wasca very weak man and I believe he had serious issues, far from a manly man in every way. I always thought that he was gay but that is my opinion only, way too emotional for me. Wallis certainly gave him what he wanted. Not unlike a certain Prince currently residing in the U.S..
Who is telling you to admire her? A historical story is not forcing you to admire a person. I watch lots of videos on people I don't admire. Should we just cancel everyone from history who might have a black mark against there name? And make sure they are forgotten?
Maybe you need to understand women’s role back then. They had little power and no status apart from that ‘bestowed’ on them by their father and husband. Marriage that included love was rare, imagine having to sex with someone you didn’t love? Constantly. Men were always free to go wherever and with whoever. Why shouldn’t women?
Thank you for stories because I didn’t know about this woman in his life. Makes e think about what we all know that all people are different and their needs are different too. Just like Prince Harry.
Whenever I read about or see documentaries about Edward VIII, and him wanting to 'leave the Monarchy,' I laugh. I always think, "Dude, what are you fit to do? What career can you utilize? You can't "Do" anything."
Firstly a commendation on the well-put-together documentary. Freda was a fascinating woman and accomplished in so many areas. I am afraid her relationship with The Prince of Wales would not have altered matters as, like Wallis, she was divorced, and in a very 'buttoned up' world the outcome would have been the same. Although Edward, Prince of Wales, had many commendable qualities, he would have made a poor Sovereign. What happened was for the best.
It was the Queen who denied him the right to use it in practice, however, he is still legally, his Royal Highness and the Queens request was not constitutional. HE WAS NOT STRIPPED OF HIS TITLE , no matter how the media, specially the US media, wish to portray it.
Wow, can you ever write. You are wasted on RUclips. It is so smooth. "Dawn stretched pale fingers over the city" I could listen to you tell the story of anything.
Wow, Edward had it bad!! In spite of his “idiosyncrasies”, I think they could have made a go of it. What I don’t get is just what the heck Freda saw in him. She was definitely too smart and sophisticated to be impressed with his social position. Perhaps it was just pure animal magnetism in spite of him being such a dud…a real weirdo. I like our Freda for her honesty, it was kind of funny how she gave Diana Cooper the bum’s rush(!), and her community work was admirable. Good story well told, thanks. Think I’m going to “hate watch” the Mountbattens now while I iron my work shirts!! That Dickie was a case and a half, manipulative hosebag. Cheers, love ya, mean it!!
Me neither. Maybe the lost little boy, mothering thing. I don't know. But at one point he was the most eligible bachelor in the world. There was even a song "I danced with a man, who danced with a girl, who danced with the prince of Wales". You can find it on youtube. I wanted to include it, but was afraid I'd get copyrighted. The Diana Cooper thing made me laugh too, its why these videos are so long sometimes, as I think 'oh that's so funny, or interesting, I shouldn't cut that out'. I have a video I think you will really like coming up on 1 february, on sisters, not mitfords....Though I will do them probably when there movie comes out in summer. How are things? Hope all is OK these days.
@ Hey Beauty, it’s already tue 28jan so you may not see this. Can’t wait to see next weekend’s show. I’ve already thrown some guesses for it on the community board…hardy har har!
Interesting that you use such a romantic script to describe women who contribute so much to the development of modernity. I wonder how you would tell the story of Hemingway?
I have a video on Fitzgerald and Zelda on the channel. I speak of Hemingway there, he also appears in several other videos. But I do not put my own voice in to the character, rather I let Scott and Zelda describe him. I feel people are best described by their contemporaries not historians.
Everyone expressing their heart felt love for each other and everyone's cheating. Never heard all this mess before, made my head ache. Edward simply did not want to be king. Thank God, England dodged a bullet. Shame on all of them!😮
So in her whole life she slept with what her husband, Edward, herbert, the polo player, and Bobby. So 5 people? Maybe a 6th. I'd hardly call that sleeping around. Amazing how women are judged so differently than men, Edward had 6 women a year easily, yet you criticise the woman.
I never knew how deep this relationship was and unlike Simpson this story is so tragic. Not sure why. Edward and his siblings were treated badly by their parents in my opinion and I think that’s why he and George married such take charge women. However I really don’t think Simpson deeply loved Edward like Elizabeth loved George or even as much as Frida loved Edward
Edward also suffered abuse at the hands of his nanny. It was only discovered after another Nanny saw him covered in bruises. The nanny was dismissed, and took her own life a few weeks later.
Thank you everyone for your continued support. Remember this is our channel, so it is important for me to know who you would like to see and your opinion on the people we cover. Hope you enjoy this one. So few pictures available on her, so hope you enjoy the narrative and the cutting together of videos and images from the day. Let me know ❤❤
Martha Gellhorn!!
The Parkhursts?
I love the imagery, her story was wonderfully told by you. Aimeè Crocker in the future hopefully.
Beautiful job. You gave her the dignity she deserved. Love the way you put together your videos.
Great video and.correct facts!
Good heavens - just thrown the tea towel down at 10am and sitting down with a coffee watching this, my secret - nobody home 🙂. Again, thank you so much. Enjoying from Melbourne, Australia.
Hope you enjoyed.
Good script
Excellent narration.Thankyou.!
Thank you for providing these extremely well done documentaries. It is not enough to title them videos because they are so well researched and expansive for that. Take a bow, you did a fantastic job! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you very much! Means a lot to hear that.
Those letters revealed that David had long had the desire to leave,what he asked Freda to do,he did with wallace.
Wallace got herself stuck with him.
A well told story.🎉
Yes, although Wallis is often viewed as a villain it is very clear David wanted a way out.
He was a man child, which was to be expected growing up with the strictures of the royal family. These sad relationships became difficult to watch after a while. It would be marvellous to hear of marriages that survived through love, loyalty and understanding, is there such a thing?
Thank you for this fascinating story. The Prince was the master of his own fate, just as we all are. According to this account and so many others, he was an emotionally immature and needy person. I think Freda is rather admirable, in many ways, certainly in terms of her service to the poor but also in her private life. She lived her life on her own terms, which shows courage, especially for a woman in that era. She also appears to have tried to protect her children from the worst effects of their parents' hedonistic life style.
Wonderful video. The importance of learning our history has never been more important. We all need to find Freda-like courage to face our future.
Beautiful imagery to this historical accounting! "As Dawn stretched pale fingers over the city..." (10:00) Incredibly well written! 🌹
Thank you so much. I love writing these stories.
Yes beautifully written and narrated.
Thank you for doing Freda this is my first time hearing of her and about her very interesting ❤
Really glad, sometimes it is fun to bring unknown women to light.
@MythicMindScape21 i love knowing about the unknown woman who you do bring into light thank you for your work❤
To the extent that anyone could “save” Edward - crippled as he was by his own character - Freda probably could have done it. But she deserved so much more than what he could offer her. Better for Wallis to get stuck with him. 🩵 Lovely video. Great work!
Yes he was. The letters really show a man who is completely lost.
This is another one of those people I never had heard of before. Every Saturday I so look forward to seeing our videos and learning more about women in history. I know whoever it is, I’m going to love it, and confess I rarely ask for a subject because no matter who it is, your videos are a chef’s kiss of perfection. Thank you again for being my Saturday night date ❤
I really appreciate that. I know I vary the subjects widely, so truly appreciate you being with me through them all.
Truly and genuinely a beautifully wonderful rendition of her story!!! Great job!
Thank you so much.
... it's 11:00pm here in 🇬🇧 & i'm in 🛌 tuning in, my comfort zone watching your educational & interesting videos, thank you! ☕️ 🫖
Sweet dreams.
...may I enquire to the name of the background music/score 🎶 🎵...? 🤔 ... soothing...
At which point?
This was amazing - I liked Freda before, I am now a fan. Thank you for showing what a gifted and generous woman she was. ❤
Thank you too.
What a life. Edward was always a child and dependent on others and I see her as enabling but smart enough not to commit. Facilitating story as always. Thank you
Thank you, in a couple of weeks I think you will really like the video for the 1st of February.
I love the way you bring the stories to life.
A wonderful deep video. Edward was a bit of a stalker with women, and I thank goodness he never became our king. I have always felt he did the same stalking with Wallis Simpson until she gave in. He was such a weak man.
Thank you for this deep and complete portrait of Freda Dudley Ward. I had known something of her by reading various biographies of Edward and Wallis but I never got so much depth as this video. Very intriguing and a woman to truly admire! Thank you.
A woman to admire??? I hardly think so.
Thank you, yes I think his letters to Freda reveal a lot about the man he was.
Salam from the UAE. Sitting at my desk, watching the mountains and listening to another fascinating story. Thank you for being here!
Sounds like a great view. Salam
Excellent !!!😊🇬🇧
Your narration is a work of art - beautiful.
Thank you
Your videos are outstanding! Thank you for all of your work to produce these fascinating stories.
I really appreciate that.
I "absolutely," loved this biography about this phenomenal woman, Freda Dudley Ward. I've always been more interested in what legacy a person leaves behind in their lives, not just wealth and fame. I had never heard of Freda Dudley Ward before seeing your outstanding biography of her, I appreciate the meticulous research that you always bring to your subscribers every week. I loved her philosophy on life don't dwell on the past its over concentrate on now and the future, period! Great investigation, presentation, backstories, illustrations and photos, too. Take care 🦋
Thank you so much, really glad you liked this one, and so glad you are such a big part of this channel.
Having stuck it out nearly to the end,` I had to stop and think. Edward VIII was, as his father predicted, ruined by his own hand. He was the utmost example of spoiled privilege. He had "mommy issues" with at least a dash of "daddy" on top. I think his most compelling quote was when he picked up a copy of Emily Bronte's most recent work, saying, "Who are these bront people anyway?" Being out of touch with reality had a mannequin for the part.
?????
Wow, no one and I mean no one can tell a story like you on youtube. I fall asleep listening to your prose. Will you ever do Huguette Clarke? Please please.
I have Been waiting for a year on Huguette Clark, but since she was a recluse, not many photos are out there. She got married and divorce faster than the speed of light, so no photos of her husband either. Freda story made me fall asleep, I mean go thru life looking for love at every corner; nymphomaniac.
@@twilightpurpleglow I liked Freda's story a lot. It gave me good insight into the psychology of Edward and what happened to him. I think if anyone can tell the story of Huguette, it is Mythic Women, they did a great job here, and there are only like 7 photos of Freda. Though I can't complain, cause I asked for Jennie Jerome for ages as well, and finally got it end of last year.
Another fascinating biography. Thank you.
Thank you
Thank you for this! I love finding out everything I can about his former lovers and their relationships
Yes, the letters that were discovered after Freda's death really opened up his psychology and makes many things more understandable.
Glad to be your contents 600th like, though wish I was the first. Lady Ward & her time period is fascinating 🍸.
It really is, thank you so much.
@MythicMindScape21 you're very welcome 🍸
I love your videos. Great job !
Thank you.
Splendid work🎉. Thank you.
Thank you too.
Another great video!❤ Thank you😊
Thank you too.
Being a homemaker is a blessing!!
As always great storytelling.
Edward was a weak man,all his affairs
were with married woman.
Goodness,Freda was ahead of her time.
He sounds psychologically damaged & narcissistic
Yes, he was also abused as a child by his Nanny. When another Nanny found him covered in bruises the first nanny who was very close with Edward was dismissed, she took her own life a few weeks later.
Poor David was beyond help back in that day. He infantilized himself and saw his lovers as mommy figures.
Sounds like another wayward Prince today.
They even look alike
Imo Edward never wanted 2 be king so whether it was Wallis or someone else he wld of abdicated Wallis just happen 2 be with him at the rt time
I never knew how deep this relationship was and unlike Simpson this story is so tragic. Not sure why. Edward and his siblings were treated badly by their parents in my opinion and I think that’s why he and George married such take charge women. However I really don’t think Simpson deeply loved Edward like Elizabeth loved George or even as much as Frita loved Edward
I think both Queen Mary and King George were reacting to their own childhoods. Queen Mary's mother, Princess Mary Adelaide of Cambridge, was a loving parent but also a serial spendthrift, which required the family to live in Italy to save money. King George's father was a womanizer whose dalliances humiliated his mother Princess Alexandra of Denmark and infuriated Queen Victoria. Perhaps their stern child rearing was a reaction to, and an attempt to preclude scandel in the future.
Wonderful! I had no idea of her impact
Great!!
But no one ever called him Edward. He was always called David.
Only his family or those closest to him called him David, to the public and everyone else he was called Edward.
@@JenLev As was clearly implied.
I am sooooo excited about this ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Yes, when i was looking for clips I saw you had been watching the Wallis and Edward movie :) I knew you would like this one.
I am new to this channel and the video on Freda Dudley Ward was so interesting and well-structured. I look forward to watching and learning more! Ann Marie from USA.
Thank you
He was bent on self-destruction
Two suggestions: Sheila Chisholm (Lady Loughborough. Lady Milbanke, Princess Dmitri Alexandrovich of Russia) - yes, the Sheila mentioned in this video. The other remarkable story is Sheila's mother: Dame Alice Chisholm, known as the mother of Kantara in WW1
Nothing could have saved Edward, to selfish and dishonest ,!
If it’s not too overwhelming, I have a list: the Bletchley girls, the female Bright Young Things, the women of the Happy Set, and the Dollar Princesses. Or, anyone you consider mythic!
Great choices and they will be in time.
56:45 Great work, one detail though - Wallis never demanded nor wanted to be married to Edward. She was still in love with her husband Ernest and the affair with Edward was a plot by the married couple to gain prestige and affluence in higher cycles, they needed money and power at the time. There are letters from Wallis to Edward where she begs him not to abdicate as she doesn't want to get married to him, as well as letters to her still husband that she is afraid that this affair went way too far and she regrets it all. She didn't want to get divorced from Ernest and was forced to do it after Edward abdicated for her publicly from the position of king. If she didn't divorce and then married Edward after that public statement she would be finishing in any society - it was a blackmail, not to mention that public display of love to a still married woman (she got divorced next year) was literally obliterating the marriage of Ernest and Wallis and she could not go back to that either. Ernest at that point had no choice but to divorce her, he was kind to get divorced on pretences of his indiscretion, where he could have easily blamed her in court. Most likely he was handsomely paid for avoiding dragging the ex king into public divorce proceedings. Ernest at the time also was losing interest in Wallis as Edward was way too demanding not leaving much time and attention from Wallis for him. He started an affair himself with his future wife Mary Raffray (he got married the same year as Wallis). Ernest and Wallis continued to correspond after her new marriage and she was pouring regret and declaring love to Ernest there. At that time his ex husband was romantically not interested in her anymore, although still cared for her platonically.
Thank you for another fascinating episode. I’m not a fan of the British monarchy or elites but enjoyed hearing about Freya. She was a wildcat! Can’t deny she had fun times. George was spoiled and a Na^i sympathizer. Parties, his wealth, and a mommy substitute made his life sweet. Freda evolved and understood the pain regular people experienced.
Omg what a weird duck Edward was. 😮
Thank you. So interesting. Narration was perfect.
Thank you so much.
Thank you just brilliant Eileen
Glad you enjoyed it
What a wonderful video. You brough to life a name I have heard in several videos. A very special person😊
Thank you again.
Edward had dozens of mistresses.
Wonderful to listen to. I subscribed !
Looking forward to listening to many more enlightening videos
Thank you
What an amazing woman..that was absolutely superbly presented..❤
The research for this story is astonishing! I really enjoyed it.
Thank you so much.
Well you can have all the wealth in the world but true love and happiness cannot be bought. Freda bed-hopping sure bothers me, rich, educated and miserable. Her two daughters in the care of nannies while she went out to have fun. Poor Mr Dudley Ward made to look like a fool for so many years; to take the fall at the end of their marriage. As for Michael Herbert, another poor soul died so young and so in love with Freda, that was sad. He was the great love of her life? I think she did not know "true love". She could have go on to marry Prince Edward, who knows maybe be a Queen one day. But that would not have made her happy either. My personal opinion; Freda did not know what she wanted in life.
No, just like Wallis Simpson, Freda would never have been allowed to marry Edward as she would have to divorce her husband to do so, and divorce was not accepted as a Queen.
@twilightpurpleglow I disagree completely with your assessment of Freda. I think it is the opposite: she knew exactly what she wanted and lived life on her own terms. She obviously was not needy like the men she was involved with therefore emotionally stable. I admire her and see her as a role model for women who aren't afraid to sleep wirh whom they wish, pursue worthwhile goals, and not care a fig what society or the church thought of them. Obviously she was a good mother who adored her children and grandchildren and they her.
I betcha Mr. Dudley Ward was also having affairs and had the times permitted it they would have divorced early on each to pursue a less dishonest life. I say "dishonest" not in terms that they hid their affairs from each other but rather how society with its restrictive rules does not allow people to live authentic lives.
Freda has captured our hearts.❤ Thank you.❤ Now it's time to find out about Lady Edwina!💚👍
Also: more on Maggie?🎉
Edwina was truly a force. Be amazing to have tea with these ladies.
“She carried the weight underneath the weight of her families wealth”. Seriously? I’m not frowning on wealth but every family has expectations.David kept his life safe by playing with married women. They could have no hold on him. You’re really making this a romance when it was and protecting his position.
Thank you for your comment. I appreciate your perspective, though I must clarify a few points.
Firstly, I am not trying to romanticize or reframe Freda Dudley Ward’s relationship with David (the future Edward VIII) beyond what the historical narrative presents. My goal is to tell a story using the available evidence, including David's own letters, which are well-documented and provide insight into his emotions and intentions during that time. If you’re interested, I highly recommend the book Letters From a Prince by Rupert Godfrey, which offers a comprehensive collection of his correspondence and sheds light on his mindset.
Secondly, I find it frustrating when people conflate historical storytelling with personal opinion. I strive to present the complexities of these figures-their flaws, contradictions, and humanity-without imposing a bias. History is rarely straightforward, and relationships like David and Freda’s are layered with personal and societal nuances.
As for your point about David’s motivations and his preference for married women, that’s a valid interpretation. However, the letters suggest that his connection with Freda was more than a mere convenience. Whether their relationship was a calculated move to protect his position or a genuine romance (or perhaps both) is a matter of perspective, which I leave open to viewers to interpret.
I hope this clears up any misunderstanding. My intention is to share these stories as accurately and thoughtfully as possible, encouraging curiosity and discussion rather than reaching definitive conclusions
I love all your work, as you know. I felt empathy for her. Bed jumping was/is something men do all the time . Particularly in Freda"s time. Courage, passion, love, and bravery were her driving forces in my humble opinion. She made mistakes, but who doesn't. Wonderful work.
What a boring world it would be without risk takers and the pursuit of things one loves. Great pick!!. I'll never win a quiz😂. Thank you again for all your hard work. ❤ 5 🌟.
You will win. I know it. This one was really hard though.
@MythicMindScape21 😄❤️
Freida was an amazing woman. She must have had huge magnetism to have several men madly in love with her as well as her ability to spearhead charity and building projects.
She was obviously too savvy to devote herself exclusively to the weak-willed Edward. As a British nobleman remarked not too long ago, the UK should erect a statue to Wallis Simpson for ridding them of a most unsuitable king.
Really captivating to watch these videos of very interesting history. Greetings from Norway ❤
Glad you enjoyed it, and greetings.
"Brendon Bracken" (a most intriguing personal story) and one that caused ke to remind myself: "Other's life stories, as well as our own, being positive or negative, successful or lacking, a struggle or inspiring, all hinge on "Perspective". Like the shapes viewed through a kaleidoscope, that change with a degree of adjustment, are highly influenced by the author of the information describing the individual and their experiences. Be that author, oneself or another, to realize this understanding truly moves one into a state of Wisdom.
For, ... "it is a major key to what we experience", as the "Universal Law of Attraction" is Absolute. ... we each are Creating our own Reality Experiences and there are infinite potentials.
We each/all can always look Young, "our cells responding to what we (think, feel, and believe)". Quantum Physics Science fact.
Beth Bartlett
Sociologist/Behavioralist
and Historian
As always, i learned many things i hadnt heard before. Its hard not to wonder if Freda had stayed with Prince of Wales vs Wallis Simpsons influence on him. Freda would likely have been the woman behind a much more successful prince i think. Maybe 😂. All i do know is they all sure got around.
Errrrrr......she was a married woman fgs. Her betrayal of her husband is sugarcoated in this video
@@fuchurZero It is stated as fact. One of the reasons I like this channel, is they do not put their own opinion into the videos and try and castigate people for their actions. There was no sugar coating, and people in those days were not allowed to get divorced, her husband committed numerous affairs too. Why do you always have to blame the women, when the laws at that time, favored the men. Seriously, no offense, but learn history and stop judging people 120 years ago as if they had modern freedoms.
She certainly would have been better than Wallis I agree.
Edward could not have been weaker or more co-dependant if he tried. I couldnt have stood being around him for five minutes. He should have been sent into exile even if he hadnt met Wallis.
This was fun and informative. Since you asked who else we'd like to see covered by your channel, I think Tina Cordova, Loyda Martinez and Bernice Guitierrez would be interesting subjects.
Edward VII always struck me as a boy - spoiled and petulant, he was used to getting his way. I don't envy him the role he was born to, but without choice he managed to act irresponsibly within the small circle of agency he did have. He must have been exhausting. I can't truly imagine any of the women actually loving the person he was, only the spot in society he gave them. A very empty life for all of them, attempting to drown their sorrows in cocktails and meaningless sex.
I absolutely adore this woman! What a beautiful beacon of femininity. Thank you. As always, I love your narratives.
I really appreciate it.
Thank you for A captivating story I am listening from South Africa.
For me David wasca very weak man and I believe he had serious issues, far from a manly man in every way. I always thought that he was gay but that is my opinion only, way too emotional for me. Wallis certainly gave him what he wanted.
Not unlike a certain Prince currently residing in the U.S..
I don’t see a woman famous for cheating on her husband as someone to admire.
Who is telling you to admire her? A historical story is not forcing you to admire a person. I watch lots of videos on people I don't admire. Should we just cancel everyone from history who might have a black mark against there name? And make sure they are forgotten?
Maybe you need to understand women’s role back then. They had little power and no status apart from that ‘bestowed’ on them by their father and husband. Marriage that included love was rare, imagine having to sex with someone you didn’t love? Constantly. Men were always free to go wherever and with whoever. Why shouldn’t women?
Thank you for stories because I didn’t know about this woman in his life. Makes e think about what we all know that all people are different and their needs are different too. Just like Prince Harry.
Prince Harry...another entitled man child...thank goodness William was born first.
I love the background music! Where can I find it?
Didn't he have a French girlfriend who was already married and killed her husband?
She sounds wonderful so much charity to help others.
Whenever I read about or see documentaries about Edward VIII, and him wanting to 'leave the Monarchy,' I laugh. I always think, "Dude, what are you fit to do? What career can you utilize? You can't "Do" anything."
………much like his ginger dimwit relative, the world has had thrust upon it, unfortunately…………
Firstly a commendation on the well-put-together documentary. Freda was a fascinating woman and accomplished in so many areas. I am afraid her relationship with The Prince of Wales would not have altered matters as, like Wallis, she was divorced, and in a very 'buttoned up' world the outcome would have been the same. Although Edward, Prince of Wales, had many commendable qualities, he would have made a poor Sovereign. What happened was for the best.
She certainly was extraordinary.
22:42 it's "hooping cough". The W is silent
It depends on where you're from. The narrator is American, and as far as I know in America we generally pronounce it with a "wh" sound.
It was the Queen who denied him the right to use it in practice, however, he is still legally, his Royal Highness and the Queens request was not constitutional. HE WAS NOT STRIPPED OF HIS TITLE , no matter how the media, specially the US media, wish to portray it.
These aristocrats' behaviours are as bad as alley cats on heat.
Wow, can you ever write. You are wasted on RUclips. It is so smooth.
"Dawn stretched pale fingers over the city" I could listen to you tell the story of anything.
Thank you so much.
Wow, Edward had it bad!! In spite of his “idiosyncrasies”, I think they could have made a go of it. What I don’t get is just what the heck Freda saw in him. She was definitely too smart and sophisticated to be impressed with his social position. Perhaps it was just pure animal magnetism in spite of him being such a dud…a real weirdo. I like our Freda for her honesty, it was kind of funny how she gave Diana Cooper the bum’s rush(!), and her community work was admirable. Good story well told, thanks. Think I’m going to “hate watch” the Mountbattens now while I iron my work shirts!! That Dickie was a case and a half, manipulative hosebag. Cheers, love ya, mean it!!
Me neither. Maybe the lost little boy, mothering thing. I don't know. But at one point he was the most eligible bachelor in the world. There was even a song "I danced with a man, who danced with a girl, who danced with the prince of Wales". You can find it on youtube. I wanted to include it, but was afraid I'd get copyrighted.
The Diana Cooper thing made me laugh too, its why these videos are so long sometimes, as I think 'oh that's so funny, or interesting, I shouldn't cut that out'.
I have a video I think you will really like coming up on 1 february, on sisters, not mitfords....Though I will do them probably when there movie comes out in summer.
How are things? Hope all is OK these days.
@ Hey Beauty, it’s already tue 28jan so you may not see this. Can’t wait to see next weekend’s show. I’ve already thrown some guesses for it on the community board…hardy har har!
Freda divorced her husband and Edward still married someone else.
Interesting that you use such a romantic script to describe women who contribute so much to the development of modernity. I wonder how you would tell the story of Hemingway?
I have a video on Fitzgerald and Zelda on the channel. I speak of Hemingway there, he also appears in several other videos. But I do not put my own voice in to the character, rather I let Scott and Zelda describe him. I feel people are best described by their contemporaries not historians.
You said Windsor Castle but showed Buckingham Palace
Other than the princes miney ,what else did he have going for him.He was a dweeb of a man.
Freeda would have safe Edward
What an amazing woman. Although had no idea of all the adulterous acts back then, but why not
He was only Edward when he was crowned. He was never called edward. Only david
She lived a fun life
can you please just tell the story, oh bugger it i'll just look her upon wikipedia
How many women was he seeing at the same time..
Quite a few.
🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Mummy.Really.?????
Everyone expressing their heart felt love for each other and everyone's cheating. Never heard all this mess before, made my head ache. Edward simply did not want to be king. Thank God, England dodged a bullet. Shame on all of them!😮
Say what you like about Edward, but at least he liked women and not children.
Poor Mr Ward...
Honestly, what a mole, she slept around!
So in her whole life she slept with what her husband, Edward, herbert, the polo player, and Bobby. So 5 people? Maybe a 6th. I'd hardly call that sleeping around. Amazing how women are judged so differently than men, Edward had 6 women a year easily, yet you criticise the woman.
I never knew how deep this relationship was and unlike Simpson this story is so tragic. Not sure why. Edward and his siblings were treated badly by their parents in my opinion and I think that’s why he and George married such take charge women. However I really don’t think Simpson deeply loved Edward like Elizabeth loved George or even as much as Frida loved Edward
Edward also suffered abuse at the hands of his nanny. It was only discovered after another Nanny saw him covered in bruises. The nanny was dismissed, and took her own life a few weeks later.