Princess Margaret: A Life of Royal Defiance and Public Scrutiny

Princess Margaret Rose was one of the most well-known and controversial figures in the British royal family. Her life was often discussed in the press, and she had a significant impact on public opinion about the monarchy in the 20th century. Margaret was born on August 21, 1930, and spent her early years as the younger daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York. After her uncle, King Edward VIll, abdicated, her father ascended the throne as King George VI, making her older sister, Elizabeth, the presumptive heir. Despite her close proximity to the throne, Margaret was known for her independence and desire to live outside the strict confines of her royal role.