From the magazine

Whether adored or despised, Princess Diana is never forgotten

Edward White examines the effect of the former Princess of Wales on the millions worldwide who never even laid eyes on her

Philip Hensher
The Princess in June 1997, before the charity auction of her dresses at Christie’s, New York. Getty Images
EXPLORE THE ISSUE 03 May 2025
issue 03 May 2025

What happened to the condolence books? They swiftly multiplied, that mad week in September 1997. The original four at St James’s Palace had to be increased to more than 40. People queued for hours and often spent many minutes composing their contributions. That’s not even to mention the thousands of similar books organised by councils, embassies and private businesses.

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