The Duke of Clarence, as William IV,…

The Duke of Clarence, as William IV, becomes king, aged sixty-four—the oldest person ever to assume the British throne—when his brother elder George IV dies on June 26, 1830 without surviving legitimate issue.

Unlike his extravagant sibling, William is unassuming, discouraging pomp and ceremony.

In contrast to George IV, who tended to spend most of his time in Windsor Castle, William will be known, especially early in his reign, to walk, unaccompanied, through London or Brighton.

Until the Reform Crisis erodes his standing, he will be very popular among the people, who see him as more approachable and down-to-earth than his brother.

The King immediately proves himself a conscientious worker.

His first Prime Minister Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, will state that he had done more business with King William in ten minutes than he had with George IV in as many days.

Lord Brougham will describe him as an excellent man of business, asking enough questions to help him understand the matter—whereas George IV had feared to ask questions lest he display his ignorance and George III would ask too many, then not wait for a response.