The opening identifies HMS Queen Mary with Queen Mary of Teck, whom Queen Victoria selected as a future royal consort. After her intended fiancé, Prince Albert Victor, died, Mary married his brother, the future George V. Her life connected Queen Victoria's final years, Edward VII's reign, George V's reign, the abdication crisis, George VI's accession, and Elizabeth II's arrival on the throne. Her public image was strong, constant, and willing to do what duty required. Those qualities introduce the ship that carried her name.
Notable Point · 1:47-4:04
Queen Mary as the ship's namesake
Queen Mary of Teck linked the late Victorian court to Elizabeth II's accession. Her public constancy becomes a model for the battlecruiser.