It may surprise you to learn that kings aren't always known by their first name. William's great grandfather's first name was Albert and he was always known as Bertie, but he picked the name George for the throne, so was known as King George VI. Likewise, his brother was a David but for his brief spell on the throne he was known as King Edward VIII.
When it comes to names, William, Prince of Wales has a few to choose from; his full name is William Arthur Phillip Louis. Believe it or not, there has never been an official King Arthur in British history – could William be the first?
It is unlikely. Instead, it is thought he will use his very regal first name, William.
There have been a fair few King Williams before – four in fact. When William comes to the throne, he is very likely to be known as King William V.
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Who were the other King Williams?
The first King William was William the Conqueror, who reigned from 1066 to 1087. After his death, his third son succeeded him as William II, reigning from 1087 to 1100.
There was then a long gap before number three came along. William III and this wife Mary II took the throne after James II (Mary's father) was deposed in 1688, and they reigned together.
William IV was the son of George III and came to the throne when his brother George IV died in 1830. He reigned until his death in 1837. After William IV, Victoria became queen – our current Prince of Wales is a direct descendant.
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