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The British film, The King's Speech, nominated this week for seven Golden Globes, tells the story of George VI's battle to overcome a terrible stammer.

He was a reluctant king, thrust into the role when his elder brother, Edward VIII, abdicated to marry the American divorcee, Wallis Simpson.

Edward VIII, smooth and charming, would have found the role of King so much easier as the BBC Archive website makes abundantly clear.

A number of his speeches, uploaded this month, showcase his accomplishments as a public speaker.

The earliest recording dates from the opening of British Empire exhibition in Wembley stadium in April 1924 - the scene of his younger brother's greatest humiliation the following year.