Edwardian period - Definition and Overview

The Edwardian period or Edwardian era in the United Kingdom is the period 1901 to 1910, the reign of King Edward VII. It is sometimes extended to include the period to the start of World War I in 1914 or even the end of the war in 1918.

Perhaps because of the King's fondness for travel, the period was marked by an enthusiasm for the art and fashions of continental Europe.

A selection of significant events

• 1902: End of Boer War in South Africa.
• 1904: Entente Cordiale is signed.
• 1907: Rudyard Kipling wins Nobel prize for literature.
• 1908: Olympic Games held in London.
• 1909: Louis Blériot crosses English Channel by air.
• 1910: Creation of Union of South Africa.
• 1912: Sinking of the Titanic.
• 1914: Start of World War I. (See also Britain During World War One.)
• 1915: Failed British invasion of Gallipoli.
• 1916: Battle of the Somme.
• 1917: United States enters World War I.
• 1918: End of World War I. Influenza pandemic.