Today in 1936, King Edward VIII announced his abdication in a worldwide radio broadcast.  Now reverted to the title and style of a prince, explained his decision.  He said, "I have found it impossible to carry the heavy burden of responsibility and to discharge my duties as king as I would wish to do without the help and support of the woman I love." He added that the "decision was mine and mine alone ... The other person most nearly concerned has tried up to the last to persuade me to take a different course."  Edward departed Britain for Austria the following day; he was unable to join Simpson until her divorce became absolute, several months later.  His brother, the Duke of York, succeeded to the throne as George VI. George VI's elder daughter, Princess Elizabeth, became heir presumptive. The next day, George VI announced he was to make his brother the Duke of Windsor with the style of Royal Highness.