The Fascinating Story Of Princess Margaret's First Husband

Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, is a figure often remembered for her glamorous lifestyle and tumultuous love affairs. Among these relationships, her marriage to Antony Armstrong-Jones stands out not only for its significance but also for its dramatic unfolding. Their union was one of the most talked-about royal weddings of the 20th century, capturing the public's imagination and sparking debates about love, duty, and the challenges of royal life.

Antony Armstrong-Jones, who later became the Earl of Snowdon, was a commoner, which made his engagement to Princess Margaret all the more sensational. The match was initially met with intrigue and skepticism, as many questioned whether a marriage between a royal and a photographer could withstand the pressures of the media spotlight and the expectations of royal traditions. Despite these challenges, their relationship began with a whirlwind romance that captivated the nation and beyond.

The marriage of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was not just a personal union but a cultural event that reflected the shifting dynamics within the British monarchy and society at large. It was a marriage that, from the outside, seemed to promise a new era of modernity and change within the Royal Family. Yet, as time would reveal, the complexities of their relationship painted a more complicated picture, offering lessons on the intersection of personal desires and public duties.

Table of Contents

• Biography of Princess Margaret's First Husband
• How did Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones meet?
• The Engagement Announcement
• A Royal Wedding to Remember
• What made the marriage challenging?
• Life as the Earl and Countess of Snowdon
• Was the marriage doomed from the start?
• The Role of Media in Their Marriage
• A Closer Look at Their Family
• The Decision to Separate
• How did the divorce impact Princess Margaret?
• Antony Armstrong-Jones: Life After Divorce
• What can we learn from their marriage?
• Legacy of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones
• Remembering Antony Armstrong-Jones

Biography of Princess Margaret's First Husband

Antony Charles Robert Armstrong-Jones was born on March 7, 1930, into the aristocratic Armstrong-Jones family. Despite his noble lineage, he pursued a career that was unconventional for someone of his background, becoming a renowned photographer. His work in fashion and portrait photography gained him a reputation for creativity and flair, eventually leading him to cross paths with Princess Margaret.

How did Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones meet?

The meeting of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was serendipitous, occurring in the late 1950s during a dinner party. At the time, Margaret was reeling from the end of her relationship with Group Captain Peter Townsend, a romance that had captivated the public. Armstrong-Jones, with his charm and artistic spirit, offered a refreshing change from the royal circles Margaret was accustomed to.

The Engagement Announcement

The engagement of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was announced on February 26, 1960. The news took the nation by surprise, as Margaret had kept her relationship with Armstrong-Jones relatively private. The engagement was a bold move, reflecting Margaret's determination to follow her heart and defy conventional expectations.

A Royal Wedding to Remember

The wedding of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones took place on May 6, 1960, at Westminster Abbey. It was the first royal wedding to be broadcast on television, watched by an estimated 300 million people worldwide. The ceremony was a blend of tradition and modernity, with Margaret's stunning gown and the couple's evident affection capturing the hearts of viewers.

What made the marriage challenging?

The marriage between Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones faced numerous challenges from the start. Their differing backgrounds and lifestyles often led to conflict, with Margaret's royal duties clashing with Armstrong-Jones's bohemian tendencies. The intense media scrutiny also added pressure, as the public's fascination with their relationship placed them under constant observation.

Life as the Earl and Countess of Snowdon

After their marriage, Antony Armstrong-Jones was granted the title of Earl of Snowdon, and Margaret became the Countess of Snowdon. The couple initially embraced their roles, engaging in public duties and supporting various charitable causes. However, the demands of royal life, combined with personal differences, began to take a toll on their relationship.

Was the marriage doomed from the start?

Many have speculated whether the marriage of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones was doomed from the beginning. Despite their initial passion, the couple's contrasting personalities and lifestyles created a volatile dynamic. Additionally, Margaret's lingering feelings for Peter Townsend and Armstrong-Jones's own infidelities further complicated their union.

The Role of Media in Their Marriage

The media played a significant role in the marriage of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones. Their relationship was a constant source of tabloid fodder, with the press eagerly documenting their highs and lows. This intense scrutiny added strain to their marriage, as both Margaret and Armstrong-Jones struggled to maintain a sense of privacy.

A Closer Look at Their Family

Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones had two children together, David, Viscount Linley, and Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones. Despite the challenges in their marriage, both Margaret and Armstrong-Jones were devoted parents, ensuring their children were raised with a strong sense of family and duty.

The Decision to Separate

By the late 1970s, the marriage between Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones had irretrievably broken down. In 1976, the couple announced their separation, a decision that marked the beginning of the end for their union. The formal divorce was finalized in 1978, making Margaret the first senior royal to divorce since King Henry VIII.

How did the divorce impact Princess Margaret?

The divorce from Antony Armstrong-Jones had a profound impact on Princess Margaret. The end of her marriage marked a turning point in her life, leading to a period of introspection and change. Despite the personal challenges she faced, Margaret remained a beloved figure, known for her resilience and commitment to her royal duties.

Antony Armstrong-Jones: Life After Divorce

After his divorce from Princess Margaret, Antony Armstrong-Jones continued to build a successful career as a photographer and filmmaker. He remarried in 1978, finding stability and happiness in his new family. Armstrong-Jones remained a prominent figure in the arts, using his platform to advocate for disability rights and other charitable causes.

What can we learn from their marriage?

The marriage of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones offers valuable insights into the complexities of love, duty, and personal fulfillment. Their relationship highlights the challenges of balancing personal desires with public responsibilities, a struggle that continues to resonate in modern society. It also underscores the importance of communication and mutual respect in any partnership.

Legacy of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones

The legacy of Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones is multifaceted, reflecting both their contributions to the arts and their impact on the Royal Family. Their marriage, though fraught with difficulties, paved the way for future generations of royals to pursue love on their own terms, challenging traditional norms and expectations.

Remembering Antony Armstrong-Jones

Antony Armstrong-Jones passed away on January 13, 2017, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic achievement and social advocacy. He is remembered as a trailblazer in the world of photography, whose innovative work continues to inspire. His marriage to Princess Margaret remains a significant chapter in royal history, emblematic of a time of change and transition.