As the last Vicerey of India he administrated the transfer of power from Britain to the independent nations of India and Pakistan in 1947.  He subsequently became independent India's first Governor.

Was the UK's First Sea Lord, 1955–59 and became admiral of the fleet in 1956.  He served as chief of the United Kingdom Defense Staff and chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee between 1959–65.

For his services in World War II and in India he was created viscount in 1946 and Earl Mountbatten of Burma the following year.

Was assassinated in 1979 by the IRA who planted a bomb in his boat.

He was the great grandson of Queen Victoria and uncle to HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.