Early Life
Lady Diana Spencer was born into the British aristocracy, worked as a kindergarten assistant, and married Charles, Prince of Wales, in a televised ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral on July 29, 1981, watched by hundreds of millions of people.
Career
As Princess of Wales she supported charities focused on HIV/AIDS, leprosy and homelessness, drawing attention by shaking hands with AIDS patients without gloves. After separating from Charles in 1992 and divorcing in 1996, she campaigned for the removal of landmines with the HALO Trust. She had two sons, Princes William and Harry.
Legacy
Diana died in a car crash in Paris on August 31, 1997, at age 36. The public mourning that followed was among the largest in British history, and her charity work and public image continue to influence the royal family.
Sources and further reading
Last updated: 2026-09-24