Three Kings at War - Documentary

UK members may be interested in "Three Kings at War" which looks at George V, Nicholas II and Kaiser Wilhelm during WW1.  This is the programme that will reveal British Secret Service plans to rescue Nicholas in 1918.

It will be preceded by a repeat of "Prince Eddy - The King we never had" which I think was shown last year.

Phil Tomaselli

This film was repeated on Channel 4 on Friday last.   I missed if first time round.

It was fairly predictible and rather plodding.   What was of interest was what was described as 'new' information accessed from GARF.   Much of this took the form of 'Dear NIcky' letters from his 'beloved Geordie'.   Although it was tragic to learn of the young Grand Duchess' plans for their new life in England.   This commentary was intercut with archive film from the 1909 holiday in Cowes.

The conclusion reached was that King George V, personally, insisted upon the withdrawal of the British offer of asylum.   He confirmed his decision over breakfast with Queen Mary at 9.00a.m. on the 6th of April 1917.   Appeals fell on deaf ears.   His mind was closed.

Of course, King George could not have predicted the Bolshevik Revolution of the following October, but he knew perfectly well that Nicholas, Alexandra and their children, as a result of his decision, were thrown to the wolves.

There appears to be some evidence to support Stephen Alley's involvement in an attempted escape, through Murmansk.   However, by this time the Imperial Family,imprisoned  in Ekaterinburg, was so remote, and so well secured as to make such an attempt unrealistic and impossible.

The royal archives covering this period are said to have been 'swept' clean.   Interestingly, it was reported that researchers and prospective biographers when seeking access to the archive, 'until recently', have been advised there will be no cooperation covering that period.

It must be very difficult for the present royal family - Prince Charles in particular.   He is devoted to the memory of his great aunt, the Grand Duchess Elizabeth Feodrovona.

tsaria   

Were there quotes from diaries or letters of the Grand Duchesses plans for England, Tsaria?

They were not presented as quotes - rather they were part of the commentary which ran along the film of the Imperial Family's visit to Cowes in 1909 - part of which was the very well known film of the children running backwards and forwards on the deck of the yacht.   

The point being made was how much the Imperial Family had enjoyed this holiday to England and, as a result, the grand duchesses recalling this experience were anticipating their return.   Whether this was speculation on the film maker's part, or whether there is a record of the girl's attitude to exile in England, I cannot say.   However, throughout the programme, there were a number references to recent access to previously unpublished documents in GARF.

Hope this helps Georgiy.   Its nice to see you back.

tsaria   

There is an older post here regarding this.  It was suggested to create a new topic.

I remember when this film came out.  I thought that it may be convenient to place here the (5) clips of the documentary, for those that did not have a chance to see it.

Those that may be interested in the royal houses of England, Germany, and Russia, will find these five clips essential in comprehending the relationships of these famous monarchs.  Those of you who know of "The Club", will be able to see actual film footage of some of its attendees. Not only were they kin to one another, but often challenged each other.  After seeing these, you might guess which one had idiosyncrasies that were most difficult to deal with...

Three Kings At War:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhvcEWl-Oys&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq-Cc8QaQzs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuD9VM-Eu0o&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-LY9LV1VPA&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5FQ2Ae2S3E&feature=related

I hope that you enjoy them.