Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, captured public imagination with her unconventional choices and modern spirit. Her most personal decision centered on who did Princess Margaret end up marrying, a choice that reshaped royal expectations in the postwar era.
Rather than following a carefully arranged royal match, Margaret chose a fellow aristocrat who shared her love of jazz, nightlife, and independence. Their relationship became a defining story of duty versus desire in the mid twentieth century monarchy.
| Full Name | Background | Wedding Date | Key Relationship Milestone |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antony Armstrong-Jones | Talented photographer from a non royal but distinguished family | 6 May 1960 | Became Earl of Snowdon in 1971, giving Margaret a lasting royal title |
| Engagement Announcement | Accepted at Balmoral, approved after private family discussions | 24 February 1960 | Marked the first televised royal engagement |
| Civil Ceremony Venue | Westminster Abbey, London | 6 May 1960 | Combined traditional ritual with modern celebrity attendance |
| Children | David Armstrong-Jones, 2nd Earl of Snowdon | 3 November 1961 | First child born within the royal family after the television era began |
Royal Upbringing and Personal Freedom
Early Life Expectations
Princess Margaret grew up amid wartime austerity and strict royal protocol, which contrasted sharply with her lively personality. Her position as the king’s sister made officials cautious about any romantic prospects.
Emerging Independence
As she reached adulthood, Margaret sought personal freedom to choose her own partner without rigid political calculations. This mindset made her more open to a relationship based on genuine affection rather than dynastic necessity.
Meeting Antony Armstrong-Jones
Social and Professional Circles
Margaret met Antony through a shared circle of artists, photographers, and designers who moved in fashionable London society. His creative work and easy charm aligned with her interests in style and modern culture.
Courtship and Privacy
Their courtship was conducted with unusual discretion for a royal romance, avoiding the intense press intrusion that affected earlier generations. This careful approach allowed their connection to develop away from constant public scrutiny.
Wedding Ceremony and Public Reaction
Westminster Abbey Ceremony
The wedding at Westminster Abbey combined centuries old ritual with contemporary music and fashion, reflecting Margaret’s desire for a modern yet respectful celebration. Guests represented both traditional aristocracy and emerging cultural figures.
Television and Media Coverage
Millions watched highlights of the ceremony on television, turning the couple into one of the first truly televised royal families. Public admiration for their glamorous yet seemingly sincere bond helped redefine royal visibility.
Marriage Life and Lasting Impact
Joint Public Duties
As Earl of Snowdon, Antony took on ceremonial roles and supported Margaret in official tours, presenting a united and stylish image of the modern monarchy. Their appearances emphasized contemporary design, arts, and international friendship.
Challenges and Legacy
Despite later personal difficulties and separation, their marriage remained historically significant as a step toward allowing royal figures greater personal choice. Their children and grandchildren continue to contribute to public life with artistic and philanthropic focus.
Key Takeaways and Royal Modernization
- Princess Margaret broke tradition by choosing a photographer and commoner as her husband.
- Her marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones symbolized a new era of personal freedom within the royal family.
- The televised wedding connected younger audiences to the monarchy in an unprecedented way.
- Despite later challenges, their partnership left a lasting mark on royal culture and public expectations.
- Margaret’s choice influenced future generations to balance duty with authentic personal relationships.
FAQ
Reader questions
Who did Princess Margaret end up marrying after her first serious relationship ended?
She married Antony Armstrong-Jones, a photographer and filmmaker who became the Earl of Snowdon, creating a partnership that lasted through decades of royal change.
Was Princess Margaret in love with the man she married?
Yes, their relationship was built on mutual attraction, shared cultural interests, and emotional connection, which was a departure from more duty based royal matches.
How did the public react to Princess Margaret marrying a commoner photographer?
Many people welcomed the marriage as a modern and inspiring union, celebrating both the romantic story and the glamorous yet accessible image the couple projected.
Did Princess Margaret and Antony stay together for life?
They separated in the 1970s and divorced in 1978, though they remained on good terms and continued to appear at major royal events as a united former couple.