Duchess of Windsor

Wallis Warfield Spencer Simpson Windsor was born in 1896 to a distinguished family. In 1916 she married Lt. Earl Winfield ("Win") Spencer, a pilot for the U.S. Navy. After World War I, Win began to drink heavily and became abusive. Wallis left Win and eventually divorced him in December 1927. Just six months later, Wallis married Ernest Simpson, who worked in the shipping business. The couple settled in London and attended social parties. At Lady Furness's house in 1931, she met Prince Edward and became a part of his circle of friends. In August 1934, Wallis and the Prince began an affair. On January 20, 1936, King George V, Edward's father, passed away, and Prince Edward became King Edward VIII. Edward's grief over his father's death was magnified by his acquisition of the throne, along with the responsibilities and eminence he deplored. He was often late or canceled appointments and events at the last minute. His infatuation with Wallis grew extreme, and he was severely distracted fr