Princesses on the Wards: Royal Women in Nursing Through Wars and Revolutions

During wars and revolutions across Europe, queens and princesses actively served as nurses, often working in wards, field hospitals, and operating theatres. Despite their sheltered upbringings, they bravely rolled up their sleeves and made a significant impact on the nursing profession, setting an example of service beyond their rank. This documentary highlights the experiences of these royals, including Princess Alice and Princess Helena, as well as Empress Alexandra of Russia, Queen Marie of Romania, Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent, and Princess Alice of Greece.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 318 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2022
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Queens and princesses have traditionally demonstrated care and compassion, but many went above and beyond. Despite their privileged upbringing, they were not afraid to get their hands dirty, working in wards, field hospitals, and operating theatres. Their experiences were similar to those of thousands of other nurses throughout Europe, but this is the first time that their involvement in nursing and their significant impact on the profession have been thoroughly documented.

The book, Princesses on the Wards, begins with the story of two daughters of Queen Victoria, Princess Alice and Princess Helena. These princesses faced numerous challenges as they sought to carve out a meaningful role in a society that often viewed the role of a well-born woman as confined to the home. However, they refused to be limited by societal expectations and instead chose to serve others.

Empress Alexandra of Russia, Queen Marie of Romania, Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent, and Princess Alice of Greece (mother of the Duke of Edinburgh) were just a few of Queen Victoria's relatives who set an example of service that went beyond what was expected of their rank. While not all of them were fully trained nurses, each made a positive contribution to alleviating suffering, which cannot be overstated.

Their dedication to nursing and their willingness to put themselves in harm's way to help others serve as a testament to their character and their commitment to making a difference in the world. Princesses on the Wards is a valuable addition to the literature on nursing and provides a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable women who paved the way for future generations of nurses.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781803990583