Royal Portrait of Duke Arthur of Connaught, 1907

Duke Arthur of Connaught, a prominent member of the British royal family, was born on May 13, 1850. He was the third son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, which connected him deeply to the heart of British nobility. In addition to being a royal, Duke Connaught served as the Governor General of Canada from 1911 to 1916, where he played a significant role in fostering strong ties between Canada and Britain during a time of great change.

This photograph, captured on December 23, 1907, by the Bain News Service, showcases the Duke during a period of immense growth for the British Empire. Known for his commitment to public service, Duke Connaught took his role in Canada seriously, addressing the needs of Canadians and promoting their interests back to Britain. His time as Governor General not only paved the way for greater autonomy in Canadian governance but also reflected an evolving relationship between the colonies and the crown, making this image a poignant snapshot of a transformative era in not just British, but also Canadian history.