When the shy, retiring Duke of York succeeded his controversial brother Edward in December 1936 he became King George VI, ruler of the British colonies and dominions, Emperor of India. But the sun was already setting inexorably on the greatest empire the world has ever seen. His reign was to see a world war, great social and political changes at home and abroad, and the first steps in the transition from Empire to Commonwealth. By the time of King George's death in 1952, the proud title of King-Emperor was no more. As a key member of the King's Household during those years, Group Captain Peter Townsend is able to provide unique and fascinating insights into the personalities and events of the time. The Last Emperor is both a sympathetic biography of a conscientious monarch and a deftly-drawn, vivid portrait of an age. Includes 8 pages of black and white photographs and an Index.