King George III of Great Britain is believed to have suffered from a mental illness, which is now thought to have been a combination of different medical conditions. The exact cause of his illness remains a matter of historical debate. Some of the potential contributing factors to his mental health issues include:
Porphyria: Some historians and medical experts believe that George III may have had a hereditary metabolic disorder called porphyria. Porphyria can cause a range of symptoms, including psychiatric disturbances.
Bipolar disorder: Others have suggested that his symptoms were more consistent with bipolar disorder (previously known as manic depression), which can cause extreme mood swings, including periods of mania and depression.
Genetic factors: There was a history of mental illness in the British royal family, which could have contributed to George III's condition.
George III's first known episode of mental illness occurred in 1788 when he experienced a period of mental instability characterized by disorientation, agitation, and irrational behavior. During these episodes, he was unable to fulfill his duties as king, leading to the appointment of a Regency to govern in his place. The first Regency Act was passed in 1789, with George III's eldest son, George, Prince of Wales (later George IV), acting as Regent.
George III experienced several periods of illness throughout the remaining years of his reign, and the Prince of Wales continued as Regent. Despite his illness, George III remained the king in name and retained some level of awareness of his surroundings.
In his later years, George III became increasingly blind and deaf, and his mental health declined further. He spent much of his time in seclusion and was cared for by his family and staff. He passed away at Windsor Castle on January 29, 1820, at the age of 81.
After George III's death, his son, George IV, became the official king. Despite his challenges, George III's long reign of over 59 years is often considered a significant period in British history, including during the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars.