George II was born November 10, 1683, the only son of George I and Sophia. He grew up in Germany, but was only 30 years old when he became king so was young enough to learn the English culture that escaped his father.

George's reign was threatened in 1745 when Charles Edward Stuart, the Young Pretender, landed in Scotland.

George's son, William Augustus, the Duke of Cumberland, led the government army at the Battle of Culloden.

George gave instructions that the Scots had to be punished for supporting Charles. Many Jacobites were executed and their land was given to those who had remained loyal to the king. Kilts and bagpipes were banned.

During his reign the British army won important military victories at Plassey (1757) and Quebec (1759). George II died in 1760.