Born in 1899
Reigned from 1947 – 1972

Contrary to his father, Frederik IX chose to keep politics at arms length. He did, however, sign a major amendment to the Danish Constitution in 1953 which changed the order of succession to allow a female monarch. It would no longer solely be a male line and instead of Frederik’s brother succeeding him, the eldest of his three daughters could inherit the throne. The amendment cleared the way for Princess Margrethe one day to become Queen of Denmark.

Whilst the King kept out of politics he was deeply involved in his naval career and travelling,  and learnt to love the life during his training as a naval officer. His other great passion was classical music. He trained to become a conductor and was often found conducting the orchestra of the Royal Opera House. As Crown Prince, the Danish national character fascinated him and this interest continued when he ascended the throne. As King he created very close ties to both Greenland and the Faeroe Islands.

King Frederik IX was an extremely well-loved king, partly because he moved the monarchy into the modern era where the media’s and the public’s interest in their Royal Family was increasing year by year. His wife, Queen Ingrid, who was just as well-loved and respected, lived to a great old age and died in 2000.