Anti-German sentiment had been growing throughout the Empire during the war years, but it reached its peak in March of 1917 by two major events. First a heavy German aircraft which bore the unfortunate name of Gotha G. IV, began bombing London directly. Second, on 15 March Nicholas II abdicated the Russian throne which raised the potential of the eventual abolition of all the monarchies of Europe.
The King and his family were finally convinced to abandon all titles held under the German Crown and to change German titles and house names to Anglo versions. On 17 July 1917, George V issued the royal proclamation which formally established the House and Family of Windsor.
