King Charles Dons British Crown

By Austin Colm ‘25
As Charles III begins his reign as monarch of the United Kingdom, many are questioning whether a thousand-year-old institution is still relevant in the twenty-first century. While largely supported in Britain under Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, it is unknown how the monarchy will continue as King Charles becomes its new face.

Almost three years ago in January 2020, Harry and Meghan, then the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, formally stepped down from senior royal status and have recently revealed elements of mistreatment by the royal family, decreasing the monarchy’s popularity. 
    As the Royal Family faces public backlash and the largely adored Queen Elizabeth is no longer the face of Britain, the monarchy may lose many supporters. Guardian reporters Ben Quinn and Emine Sinmaz wrote that, “the organized side of Britain’s republican [anti-monarchy] movement has decided to stay relatively quiet before the coronation, expected next year, but those wishing to abolish the monarchy may take encouragement from the direction of polling, which shows support for the institution at an all-time low.” 
Despite low support for the monarchy, the new king’s coronation will likely improve ratings.
Senior Daniel Shapiro said, “I think that King Charles will be less of a public figure at a time when the monarchy desperately needs public opinion on its side to continue its existence.”
Furthermore, the role of the monarch in political affairs is a common source of debate. The late Queen Elizabeth remained politically quiet while still serving as a commanding figure for the people of the United Kingdom. 
In contrast, King Charles has been politically active throughout his life, and a particularly staunch supporter of climate reform. Before ascending to the throne, King Charles has indicated that he would tone down his political activity. “The idea somehow that I am going to go on in exactly the same way, if I have to succeed, is complete nonsense,” the King stated.
The idea of an apolitical monarch is similarly broadcasted by the Royal Family’s website. They maintain that the monarch's role is non-political and that legislative power resides with Parliament, adding that “the Sovereign acts as a focus for national identity, unity and pride.”
This sense of national pride and identity can be seen throughout the United Kingdom on banknotes and coins featuring the new Sovereign’s portrait. Fresh coins have already been designed, and some will enter circulation by the end of the year.    
While it will be difficult to fill the void left by Her Majesty the Queen’s passing, in time, His Majesty King Charles may become the face of the United Kingdom and form a new sense of pride for the British people. 
According to TimesofIsrael.com, King Charles stated that he will defend all faiths in a multi-cultural Britain. His Majesty historically has been a supporter of Judaism and has visited Israel in addition to hosting multiple meetings with Britain’s Chief Rabbi. 
Junior Jack Spigler explained, “I think that it’s good to have a new beginning for the monarchy. I know Queen Elizabeth was like really good for England, and she was really nice to all of us, and everyone. I know. But I think it’s going to be a great new start for the royal family.”