#624 | George III: The Real Story of the “Mad King”

#624 | George III: The Real Story of the “Mad King”

Author: Leonardo English July 31, 2026 Duration: 25:31

 


In 1788, King George III began speaking without pause, talking to trees, and frightening his court. 

He is often remembered as the “Mad King” who lost America, but his life was far more complex and tragic. 

This episode looks at the devoted farmer-king, his mysterious illness, and what doctors now believe was really wrong with him. 

  • George III beyond the mad king stereotype
  • Early life and becoming a British not German king
  • Farmer George habits and love of family and science
  • Seven Years War victory and heavy debts for Britain
  • Missteps leading to American Revolution and independence
  • His limited power as a constitutional monarch
  • Onset of illness in 1788 and disturbing behaviour
  • Brutal treatments by Francis Willis and their harm
  • French Revolution pressure and long wars with Napoleon
  • Later decline, Regency, and death at Windsor Castle


 Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/george-iii


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Keywords: Learn English, vocabulary, lessons, idioms, aprende inglés, idiomas, aprender inglês, apprendre l'anglais, imparare l’inglese, ingilizce öğren,英語を習う, تعلم الإنجليزية


If your language studies could use a dose of fascination, English Learning for Curious Minds might just be what you're looking for. Created by Leonardo English, this podcast is designed for intermediate to advanced learners who are tired of dry textbooks and repetitive exercises. Instead, each episode dives into a curiously compelling topic-you might explore the history of forgotten inventions, unravel mysteries of ancient cultures, or discuss surprising scientific discoveries. The conversation is deliberately paced for comprehension, allowing you to absorb natural pronunciation and complex vocabulary in context. To support your learning, every episode includes an interactive transcript, subtitles, and key vocabulary lists. It’s this blend of genuine intellectual curiosity and practical learning tools that has built a global community, with listeners tuning in from 189 different countries. The result is a genuinely engaging way to build fluency, where improving your English feels less like a chore and more like a series of fascinating conversations about the weird and wonderful aspects of our world.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

English Learning for Curious Minds | A More Interesting Way To Learn English
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