Ntare V of Burundi vs William IV

Ntare V was installed as mwami by the military regime that overthrew his father Mwambutsa IV. He was a figurehead monarch, with real power held by the military government led by Michel Micombero. His reign lasted only a few months before the monarchy was abolished.

Later in 1966, Prime Minister Michel Micombero declared Burundi a republic, deposing Ntare V and abolishing the monarchy. Ntare V went into exile in Uganda, where he lived under the protection of President Idi Amin, ending the centuries-old Ganwa dynasty.

Ntare V returned to Burundi in 1972 after negotiations with President Micombero, but was immediately placed under house arrest. During a Hutu uprising that year, he was killed by Tutsi soldiers, possibly on government orders. His death became a symbol of the ethnic violence that engulfed Burundi.

William IV served in the Royal Navy from age 13, rising to the rank of admiral. He saw action in the American Revolutionary War and later served as Lord High Admiral. His naval experience earned him the nickname 'Sailor King'.

William IV gave royal assent to the Reform Act, which reformed the British electoral system. It abolished rotten boroughs, redistributed seats to industrial cities, and expanded the electorate. This act was a major step toward democratic representation.

William IV gave royal assent to the Slavery Abolition Act, which abolished slavery throughout the British Empire. The act provided for the emancipation of slaves and compensation to slave owners. This was a landmark in human rights.

William IV died of heart failure at Windsor Castle at age 71. He was buried in St George's Chapel. His death ended the personal union with Hanover, as Salic law prevented Queen Victoria from inheriting Hanover. His reign saw significant reform.