Princess Diana: The People’s Princess
Early Life
Diana Frances Spencer was born on July 1, 1961, in Norfolk, England, into an aristocratic family with royal ties. She was the fourth of five children of John Spencer, Viscount Althorp, and Frances Roche. Diana spent her early years at the family estate, Park House, located near the royal Sandringham estate.
Marriage and Royal Life
Diana gained international fame when she married Prince Charles, the heir to the British throne, on July 29, 1981. Their wedding at St. Paul’s Cathedral was watched by millions around the world and marked the beginning of Diana’s global celebrity status. She became Princess of Wales, and together they had two sons:
Prince William (born 1982)
Prince Harry (born 1984)
Despite the fairy-tale image, Diana’s marriage was troubled, and the couple eventually divorced in 1996.
Charity and Humanitarian Work
Princess Diana was admired for her compassion and tireless humanitarian efforts. She worked with charities supporting:
HIV/AIDS awareness
Homelessness
Mental health
Victims of landmines
Her visit to Angola in 1997, walking through an active minefield, brought global attention to the issue and helped shape international policy.
Death and Legacy
Diana died tragically in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997, at the age of 36. Her sudden death shocked the world and led to an unprecedented outpouring of public grief.
Diana remains one of the most beloved figures of the 20th century. Known as the “People’s Princess”, her legacy continues through her sons and the charitable foundations inspired by her work.
Source:
Royal.uk
BBC Archives
The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund
