How would a longer-lived Prince Edward (let's say living until just about a year before Victoria becomes queen) affect Victoria's abilities and time as the Queen of Britain?
First off, it can be pointed out that Edward might well have a son who would knock Victoria out of the succession so let's assume that he has no more (legitimate) children after her or at least no more legitimate sons.
For the first part of her life, I think it would generally be assumed by Edward and others that he would have more children (and a son) and would not see Victoria as his heir - but if he has no other children or only more daughters, by around 1830, he might begin to seriously consider that there is a strong possibility that Victoria will one day be queen. From there, how would his presence influence the future queen?
If we're going for the Edward only has more daughters, it would also be interesting to see how a Victoria with sisters might grow up differently as well.
One thing I can't see happening in this TL is the Kennsington system.
First off, it can be pointed out that Edward might well have a son who would knock Victoria out of the succession so let's assume that he has no more (legitimate) children after her or at least no more legitimate sons.
For the first part of her life, I think it would generally be assumed by Edward and others that he would have more children (and a son) and would not see Victoria as his heir - but if he has no other children or only more daughters, by around 1830, he might begin to seriously consider that there is a strong possibility that Victoria will one day be queen. From there, how would his presence influence the future queen?
If we're going for the Edward only has more daughters, it would also be interesting to see how a Victoria with sisters might grow up differently as well.
One thing I can't see happening in this TL is the Kennsington system.