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26 Mar 2025, Wed

How the king reshapes the British monarchy

Rei Charles III 1 - Foto: Instagram


The rise of Charles III to the throne of the United Kingdom opened a new chapter in the history of the British monarchy, introducing subtle shifts and a fresh perspective on the role of royalty. Following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022, he ascended at the age of 73, becoming the oldest monarch crowned at Westminster Abbey in a ceremony held on May 6, 2023. In 2024, with just over a year of reign, Charles has faced personal and institutional challenges, including a cancer diagnosis that temporarily paused his public duties, as he strives to leave his mark on one of the world’s most enduring institutions.

Born on November 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace, Charles Philip Arthur George was groomed from an early age to succeed his mother. Unlike many predecessors, he pursued an education outside palace walls, attending schools such as Hill House in London and Gordonstoun in Scotland. At 20, in 1969, he was invested as Prince of Wales in a televised ceremony at Caernarfon Castle, after studying Welsh at the University of Aberystwyth. His journey, marked by high-profile marriages and a prominent public life, reflects a monarch blending tradition with efforts toward modernization.

Charles III’s coronation, watched by millions globally, symbolized the monarchy’s continuity amid a changing world. The event at Westminster Abbey, rich with centuries-old rituals, was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and peaked with the placement of St Edward’s Crown, a solid gold artifact from 1661. Camilla, his wife since 2005, was crowned Queen Consort alongside him, cementing her role in this new era of British royalty.

  • Key moments of his rise:
    • Official proclamation at St James’s Palace in 2022.
    • Coronation at Westminster in May 2023.
    • First international trip as king to France in 2023.
  • Momentos-chave da ascensão:
    • Proclamação oficial em St James’s Palace, em 2022.
    • Coroação em Westminster, em maio de 2023.
    • Primeira viagem internacional como rei à França, em 2023.
King Charles III
King Charles III – Photo: Instagram

A life shaped by royalty

Charles III grew up in the spotlight as the direct heir to Elizabeth II, who took the throne when he was just four years old. His childhood and youth were defined by a rigorous education and the weight of a future reign. Breaking from tradition, he attended conventional schools rather than relying on private tutors, a choice that aimed to connect him more closely with British society. At Gordonstoun, he faced a stern environment that he later credited with building his resilience.

His marriage to Lady Diana Spencer on July 29, 1981, at St Paul’s Cathedral was one of the most-watched events in history, though it ushered in a turbulent period. The union, which produced Princes William and Harry, ended in divorce in 1996, a year before Diana’s tragic death in a Paris car crash. Years later, on April 9, 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony in Windsor, a move that initially sparked debate but has since been accepted as a cornerstone of his personal and public stability.

After decades as Prince of Wales, Charles ascended the throne with a unique background. He chose to retain the name Charles III, a decision signaling continuity while echoing previous kings with distinct reigns in British history. His eldest son, William, inherited the Prince of Wales title, while Harry, distanced from royal duties, pursues an independent path in the United States.

The coronation ritual unveiled

The coronation of Charles III was a pinnacle of symbolism and tradition, held nearly eight months after his proclamation as king. The ceremony at Westminster Abbey followed a script established 900 years ago, beginning with William the Conqueror. During the event, Charles received the symbols of royal power—the orb and scepter—and was anointed with oils scented with orange, roses, and cinnamon, a ritual rooted in the monarchy’s religious origins.

St Edward’s Crown, weighing around 2.23 kilograms, was the ceremony’s centerpiece. Crafted from solid gold and studded with precious stones, it is worn solely at the moment of coronation before returning to the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. Camilla was also crowned, with a modified crown for the occasion, reinforcing her status as Queen Consort. The state-funded celebration drew world leaders and was broadcast live, captivating a global audience.

Earlier, the official proclamation took place at St James’s Palace before the Accession Council. Charles pledged to uphold constitutional government and preserve the Church of Scotland, a tradition dating back to the 18th century. For the first time since 1952, the national anthem rang out with “God Save the King,” marking the formal start of his reign.

Charles III and the trials of 2024

In 2024, Charles III encountered one of his reign’s most challenging moments with a cancer diagnosis announced in February. The news prompted a temporary halt to public appearances, though he continued administrative duties behind the scenes. Buckingham Palace reported that the king is undergoing treatment and remains optimistic, while the public follows his recovery with keen interest and support.

Before this hiatus, Charles had already made an impact with international engagements. In 2023, he visited France, Romania, and Germany, where he became the first British monarch to address the Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament. These trips underscored his role as head of the Commonwealth, a 56-nation organization encompassing over 2.5 billion people. In 14 of these nations, including Canada, Australia, and Jamaica, he serves as head of state.

Domestically, the king has overseen the tenure of two prime ministers in a short span, reflecting political turbulence in the UK. Yet his role remains ceremonial, centered on representing the nation and championing causes like sustainability and culture—priorities he pursued for decades as Prince of Wales.

Influence across the Commonwealth

As head of the Commonwealth, Charles III inherited a role that extends beyond British borders. The organization, comprising independent nations and former colonies, views the king as a unifying figure. In the 14 Commonwealth realms, such as New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, he is head of state, a symbolic position contingent on local acceptance. In some, like Jamaica, discussions about transitioning to a republic are gaining traction, posing challenges to his future leadership.

His connection with the Commonwealth is reinforced through visits and diplomatic gestures. During his reign, Charles has signaled a desire to deepen cultural and economic ties among members, a goal he emphasized in speeches even before taking the throne. In 2024, with his recovery underway, he is expected to ramp up this commitment, potentially with a tour of Caribbean or Pacific nations.

  • Countries where Charles III is head of state:
    • Australia, Canada, Bahamas.
    • Belize, Jamaica, Tuvalu.
    • St Lucia, Grenada, New Zealand.

Shifts in the monarchy under Charles III

Charles III assumed the throne amid scrutiny over the monarchy’s relevance. Unlike Elizabeth II, whose 70-year reign epitomized stability, he faces a more critical and diverse society. His approach involves efforts to make the royals more relatable while preserving their defining protocols. A streamlined royal family, with William and Kate taking prominent roles, is one noticeable change.

Sustainability, a lifelong passion, has also come to the forefront. Charles leverages his platform to promote environmental initiatives, such as renewable energy and organic farming projects. In 2023, during his German visit, he addressed the climate crisis in his Bundestag speech, illustrating how he aims to align the monarchy with contemporary issues.

Digital communication has seen an upgrade too. Buckingham Palace has expanded its use of social media to share events and updates, like the king’s health status in 2024. This transparency contrasts with his mother’s more reserved style, reflecting an adaptation to modern times.

Timeline of key reign events

Charles III’s reign has already been punctuated by significant milestones, outlined in a timeline that captures his ascent and challenges:

  • September 2022: Elizabeth II’s death and Charles’s proclamation as king.
  • May 2023: Coronation at Westminster Abbey.
  • February 2024: Cancer diagnosis and pause in public appearances.

These moments shape the story of a king who, despite a brief tenure so far, is navigating tests of endurance and adaptation.

Building a legacy

At 75, Charles III is crafting a legacy in a reign that may be shorter than his mother’s but no less impactful. His over 50 years as Prince of Wales equipped him with a broad perspective on the UK and global challenges. Social initiatives like the Prince’s Trust, which has aided millions of young people, form part of his legacy now carried into his kingship.

His health, however, underscores the succession question. William, next in line, is stepping into key duties, preparing for the future. Meanwhile, Charles maintains a measured pace, balancing official responsibilities with recovery. In 2024, his schedule includes plans to resume international travel, such as a potential visit to Australia, signaling his resolve to lead.

The monarchy under Charles III blends tradition with renewal. His steps—from coronation to personal trials—reveal a king aware of his role in a shifting world, aiming to leave a mark that honors the past while embracing the future.



The rise of Charles III to the throne of the United Kingdom opened a new chapter in the history of the British monarchy, introducing subtle shifts and a fresh perspective on the role of royalty. Following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022, he ascended at the age of 73, becoming the oldest monarch crowned at Westminster Abbey in a ceremony held on May 6, 2023. In 2024, with just over a year of reign, Charles has faced personal and institutional challenges, including a cancer diagnosis that temporarily paused his public duties, as he strives to leave his mark on one of the world’s most enduring institutions.

Born on November 14, 1948, at Buckingham Palace, Charles Philip Arthur George was groomed from an early age to succeed his mother. Unlike many predecessors, he pursued an education outside palace walls, attending schools such as Hill House in London and Gordonstoun in Scotland. At 20, in 1969, he was invested as Prince of Wales in a televised ceremony at Caernarfon Castle, after studying Welsh at the University of Aberystwyth. His journey, marked by high-profile marriages and a prominent public life, reflects a monarch blending tradition with efforts toward modernization.

Charles III’s coronation, watched by millions globally, symbolized the monarchy’s continuity amid a changing world. The event at Westminster Abbey, rich with centuries-old rituals, was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and peaked with the placement of St Edward’s Crown, a solid gold artifact from 1661. Camilla, his wife since 2005, was crowned Queen Consort alongside him, cementing her role in this new era of British royalty.

  • Key moments of his rise:
    • Official proclamation at St James’s Palace in 2022.
    • Coronation at Westminster in May 2023.
    • First international trip as king to France in 2023.
  • Momentos-chave da ascensão:
    • Proclamação oficial em St James’s Palace, em 2022.
    • Coroação em Westminster, em maio de 2023.
    • Primeira viagem internacional como rei à França, em 2023.
King Charles III
King Charles III – Photo: Instagram

A life shaped by royalty

Charles III grew up in the spotlight as the direct heir to Elizabeth II, who took the throne when he was just four years old. His childhood and youth were defined by a rigorous education and the weight of a future reign. Breaking from tradition, he attended conventional schools rather than relying on private tutors, a choice that aimed to connect him more closely with British society. At Gordonstoun, he faced a stern environment that he later credited with building his resilience.

His marriage to Lady Diana Spencer on July 29, 1981, at St Paul’s Cathedral was one of the most-watched events in history, though it ushered in a turbulent period. The union, which produced Princes William and Harry, ended in divorce in 1996, a year before Diana’s tragic death in a Paris car crash. Years later, on April 9, 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony in Windsor, a move that initially sparked debate but has since been accepted as a cornerstone of his personal and public stability.

After decades as Prince of Wales, Charles ascended the throne with a unique background. He chose to retain the name Charles III, a decision signaling continuity while echoing previous kings with distinct reigns in British history. His eldest son, William, inherited the Prince of Wales title, while Harry, distanced from royal duties, pursues an independent path in the United States.

The coronation ritual unveiled

The coronation of Charles III was a pinnacle of symbolism and tradition, held nearly eight months after his proclamation as king. The ceremony at Westminster Abbey followed a script established 900 years ago, beginning with William the Conqueror. During the event, Charles received the symbols of royal power—the orb and scepter—and was anointed with oils scented with orange, roses, and cinnamon, a ritual rooted in the monarchy’s religious origins.

St Edward’s Crown, weighing around 2.23 kilograms, was the ceremony’s centerpiece. Crafted from solid gold and studded with precious stones, it is worn solely at the moment of coronation before returning to the Crown Jewels at the Tower of London. Camilla was also crowned, with a modified crown for the occasion, reinforcing her status as Queen Consort. The state-funded celebration drew world leaders and was broadcast live, captivating a global audience.

Earlier, the official proclamation took place at St James’s Palace before the Accession Council. Charles pledged to uphold constitutional government and preserve the Church of Scotland, a tradition dating back to the 18th century. For the first time since 1952, the national anthem rang out with “God Save the King,” marking the formal start of his reign.

Charles III and the trials of 2024

In 2024, Charles III encountered one of his reign’s most challenging moments with a cancer diagnosis announced in February. The news prompted a temporary halt to public appearances, though he continued administrative duties behind the scenes. Buckingham Palace reported that the king is undergoing treatment and remains optimistic, while the public follows his recovery with keen interest and support.

Before this hiatus, Charles had already made an impact with international engagements. In 2023, he visited France, Romania, and Germany, where he became the first British monarch to address the Bundestag, Germany’s federal parliament. These trips underscored his role as head of the Commonwealth, a 56-nation organization encompassing over 2.5 billion people. In 14 of these nations, including Canada, Australia, and Jamaica, he serves as head of state.

Domestically, the king has overseen the tenure of two prime ministers in a short span, reflecting political turbulence in the UK. Yet his role remains ceremonial, centered on representing the nation and championing causes like sustainability and culture—priorities he pursued for decades as Prince of Wales.

Influence across the Commonwealth

As head of the Commonwealth, Charles III inherited a role that extends beyond British borders. The organization, comprising independent nations and former colonies, views the king as a unifying figure. In the 14 Commonwealth realms, such as New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, he is head of state, a symbolic position contingent on local acceptance. In some, like Jamaica, discussions about transitioning to a republic are gaining traction, posing challenges to his future leadership.

His connection with the Commonwealth is reinforced through visits and diplomatic gestures. During his reign, Charles has signaled a desire to deepen cultural and economic ties among members, a goal he emphasized in speeches even before taking the throne. In 2024, with his recovery underway, he is expected to ramp up this commitment, potentially with a tour of Caribbean or Pacific nations.

  • Countries where Charles III is head of state:
    • Australia, Canada, Bahamas.
    • Belize, Jamaica, Tuvalu.
    • St Lucia, Grenada, New Zealand.

Shifts in the monarchy under Charles III

Charles III assumed the throne amid scrutiny over the monarchy’s relevance. Unlike Elizabeth II, whose 70-year reign epitomized stability, he faces a more critical and diverse society. His approach involves efforts to make the royals more relatable while preserving their defining protocols. A streamlined royal family, with William and Kate taking prominent roles, is one noticeable change.

Sustainability, a lifelong passion, has also come to the forefront. Charles leverages his platform to promote environmental initiatives, such as renewable energy and organic farming projects. In 2023, during his German visit, he addressed the climate crisis in his Bundestag speech, illustrating how he aims to align the monarchy with contemporary issues.

Digital communication has seen an upgrade too. Buckingham Palace has expanded its use of social media to share events and updates, like the king’s health status in 2024. This transparency contrasts with his mother’s more reserved style, reflecting an adaptation to modern times.

Timeline of key reign events

Charles III’s reign has already been punctuated by significant milestones, outlined in a timeline that captures his ascent and challenges:

  • September 2022: Elizabeth II’s death and Charles’s proclamation as king.
  • May 2023: Coronation at Westminster Abbey.
  • February 2024: Cancer diagnosis and pause in public appearances.

These moments shape the story of a king who, despite a brief tenure so far, is navigating tests of endurance and adaptation.

Building a legacy

At 75, Charles III is crafting a legacy in a reign that may be shorter than his mother’s but no less impactful. His over 50 years as Prince of Wales equipped him with a broad perspective on the UK and global challenges. Social initiatives like the Prince’s Trust, which has aided millions of young people, form part of his legacy now carried into his kingship.

His health, however, underscores the succession question. William, next in line, is stepping into key duties, preparing for the future. Meanwhile, Charles maintains a measured pace, balancing official responsibilities with recovery. In 2024, his schedule includes plans to resume international travel, such as a potential visit to Australia, signaling his resolve to lead.

The monarchy under Charles III blends tradition with renewal. His steps—from coronation to personal trials—reveal a king aware of his role in a shifting world, aiming to leave a mark that honors the past while embracing the future.



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