George V

For a man with such conventional tastes and views, George V had a revolutionary impact.

Almost despite himself he marked a decisive break with his flamboyant predecessor Edward VII, inventing the modern monarchy, with its emphasis on frequent public appearances, family values and duty.

George V was an effective war-leader and inventor of 'the House of Windsor'.

In an era of ever greater media coverage - frequently filmed and initiating the British Empire Christmas broadcast - George became for 25 years a universally recognised figure.

He was also the only British monarch to take his role as Emperor of India seriously.