Princess Margaret and Anthony Armstrong-Jones, commonly known as Tony Armstrong-Jones, entered a high-profile royal marriage that captured public imagination. Many people wonder how long was Princess Margaret married to Tony and what that partnership truly entailed.
Their union represented a significant moment in mid-20th century British royal history, blending aristocratic tradition with modern celebrity. This overview clarifies the duration, context, and key milestones of their marriage for readers seeking precise information.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Names | Princess Margaret Rose; Anthony Armstrong-Jones |
| Wedding Date | 6 May 1960 |
| Civil Ceremony Location | Caxton Hall, Westminster, London |
| Religious Ceremony Location | Westminster Abbey, London |
| Date of Divorce | 11 July 1978 |
| Duration of Marriage | 18 years, 2 months, 5 days |
| Children | David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon; Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones |
The Royal Wedding of 1960
A High-Profile Ceremony
The question of how long was Princess Margaret married to Tony begins with their lavish wedding in 1960. The ceremony at Westminster Abbey and the subsequent receptions epitomized post-war opulence and modern royal pageantry.
Public and Media Interest
Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, had long fascinated the public. Her choice to marry commoner Tony Armstrong-Jones intensified scrutiny and set a precedent for future royal marriages.
Marriage Life and Dynamics
Early Years Together
During the early phase of their marriage, the couple presented a united, fashionable front, traveling internationally and hosting prominent guests at their residences.
Challenges and Pressures
The intense scrutiny from journalists and the constraints of royal protocol created strains, testing the resilience of their personal and public partnership over the years.
Separation and Divorce Process
Legal Separation Timeline
By the mid-1970s, reports of growing distance between them emerged publicly, leading to formal separation and eventual divorce in 1978.
Finalization Details
The decree nisi in 1978 and the subsequent decree absolute finalized the legal end of their marriage after 18 years, marking a definitive chapter in royal history.
Legacy and Public Perception
Impact on the Monarchy
The dissolution of their union influenced royal protocols regarding marital difficulties and signaled evolving attitudes toward personal happiness within the institution.
Continued Public Interest
Despite the end of their marriage, both Margaret and Tony remained culturally significant, with their story frequently revisited in historical and media narratives.
Key Takeaways
- Wedding occurred in 1960 at Westminster Abbey with extensive media coverage.
- Marriage lasted 18 years, ending in divorce in 1978.
- Two children were born during the marriage.
- Public scrutiny significantly impacted their relationship.
- Their story influenced royal attitudes toward marital challenges.
FAQ
Reader questions
How long exactly was Princess Margaret married to Tony Armstrong-Jones?
Princess Margaret was married to Tony Armstrong-Jones for 18 years, 2 months, and 5 days, from 6 May 1960 to 11 July 1978.
Were there children from their marriage and what happened to them?
Yes, they had two children, David Armstrong-Jones and Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones, who grew up under significant public attention and later pursued their own careers and public roles.
Did the Queen approve of Princess Margaret’s marriage to Tony?
The Queen initially supported the union, but concerns over Tony’s background and the pressures of royal life contributed to the challenges the couple faced privately. Official statements at the time cited mutual consent and irreconcilable differences, reflecting the personal and professional strains that had developed over many years.