King Charles III, previously recognized as The Prince of Wales, ascended to the throne following the demise of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022. Throughout his tenure as The Prince of Wales, His Majesty engaged significantly in both official and ceremonial responsibilities, both within the United Kingdom and internationally. Demonstrating a profound and sustained interest in diverse aspects of public life, the King played a pivotal role in founding over 20 charitable organizations across four decades. Notable among these are The Prince’s Trust, The Prince’s Foundation, and The Prince of Wales’s Charitable Fund (PWCF).
His Majesty has collaborated extensively with numerous entities, fervently advocating for a broad spectrum of issues. These encompass environmental protection, rural community development, urban planning, cultural arts, healthcare, and educational advancement.
The statement from Buckingham Palace, published on February 5, 2024, addresses the health condition of King Charles III. The report reveals that during a recent hospital procedure for benign prostate enlargement, another health concern was discovered. Further tests diagnosed a form of cancer. Consequently, the King has begun a regular treatment schedule and has been advised to reduce public-facing duties for the time being, official statement said.
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Early Life: King Charles III
Birth and Baptism
The Prince of Wales, the firstborn of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, made his entrance into the world at Buckingham Palace at 9.14pm on November 14, 1948. His baptism, a significant event, took place just a month later, on December 15. Charles Philip Arthur George was christened in the Palace’s Music Room, an event officiated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Geoffrey Fisher.
Ascension of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles’ Early Titles
The trajectory of the Prince’s life took a notable turn early on. His mother, Queen Elizabeth II, ascended to the throne at the young age of 25 following the death of her father, King George VI, who passed away at the age of 56 on February 6, 1952. With his mother’s ascension, Prince Charles, then only three years old, became the heir apparent, a position of significant responsibility and expectation.
Inheriting Historic Titles
In his role as the future monarch, the Prince inherited several historic titles. He became the Duke of Cornwall, a title established under a charter by King Edward III in 1337. Additionally, within the Scottish peerage, he assumed the titles of Duke of Rothesay, Earl of Carrick, Baron Renfrew, Lord of the Isles, and Prince and Great Steward of Scotland, each carrying its own weight and history.
The Prince at the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II
At the tender age of four, the Prince witnessed a momentous event in British history – the Coronation of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, which took place in Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953. This grand ceremony left a lasting impression on many who viewed it, both in person and through broadcasts. A particularly memorable image from that day features the young Prince, seated between two significant figures in his life: his widowed grandmother, affectionately known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, and his aunt, Princess Margaret. Their presence at this historic event, alongside the young Prince, added a personal and familial touch to the solemnity of the occasion.
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Educational Journey
Early Schooling Decisions
The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh chose a traditional school setting for The Prince instead of private tutoring at the Palace. His educational journey began at Hill House school in West London, starting on November 7, 1956.
Transition to Boarding School
After 10 months at Hill House, the young Prince transitioned to boarding life at Cheam School, a preparatory institution in Berkshire. It was during his time at Cheam, in 1958, that he was named The Prince of Wales and Earl of Chester, at the age of nine.
The Prince of Wales at Cheam School
The Prince of Wales’ journey to Cheam School in Berkshire marks a significant chapter in his early education.
Gordonstoun: A New Chapter
April 1962 saw The Prince embarking on a new academic adventure at Gordonstoun, a school in Eastern Scotland. This was the same school attended by The Duke of Edinburgh.
Australian Exchange Experience
In 1966, The Prince spent two terms in Australia as an exchange student at Timbertop, part of the Geelong Church of England Grammar School, located in a remote area of Melbourne.
Final Year at Gordonstoun and Academic Achievements
Returning to Gordonstoun for his final year, The Prince of Wales was named school guardian (head boy). He excelled academically, passing six O Levels and achieving A Level grades of B in history, C in French, and a distinction in a special history paper in July 1967.
University Education at Cambridge
The Prince attended Cambridge University in 1967, initially studying archaeology and anthropology at Trinity College. He later switched to history and graduated in 1970 with a 2:2 degree.
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Investiture and military career
Investiture as Prince of Wales
The Queen formally invested His Royal Highness as Prince of Wales in a vibrant ceremony at Caernarfon Castle on July 1, 1969. Prior to this, The Prince had dedicated a term at the University College of Wales at Aberystwyth, where he immersed himself in learning the Welsh language.
The Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle
The significant moment of Prince Charles being invested as Prince of Wales at Caernarvon Castle stands as a historic event.
Joining the House of Lords
On February 11, 1970, His Royal Highness took his official seat in the House of Lords, marking another milestone in his royal duties.
Training as a Jet Pilot
March 8, 1971, marked the beginning of The Prince’s aviation training when he flew himself to the Royal Air Force (RAF) Cranwell in Lincolnshire. This was a continuation of the flying instruction he had commenced during his second year at Cambridge University.
Embarking on a Naval Career
In September 1971, after completing his training at Cranwell, The Prince followed in the naval footsteps of his father, grandfather, and great-grandfathers. His naval journey began with a six-week course at the Royal Naval College, Dartmouth.
Royal Naval Service
The Prince’s naval career included service on the guided missile destroyer HMS Norfolk and two frigates. His training extended to qualifying as a helicopter pilot in 1974, followed by joining the 845 Naval Air Squadron aboard the Commando carrier HMS Hermes.
Command of HMS Bronington
A significant moment in The Prince’s naval career was on February 9, 1976, when he took command of the coastal minehunter HMS Bronington. This marked his final nine months in the Navy, concluding a distinguished period of military service.
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Family and Married Life
Royal Wedding with Lady Diana Spencer
On July 29, 1981, a landmark event took place: The Prince of Wales – King Charles III- married Lady Diana Spencer in a grand ceremony at St Paul’s Cathedral. Lady Diana came from a background closely connected to the royal family; her father, then Viscount Althorp and later the eighth Earl Spencer, had served as an equerry to both George VI and The Queen. Additionally, her maternal grandmother, Ruth, Lady Fermoy, was a close friend and Lady-in-Waiting to The Queen Mother.
Birth of Princes William and Harry
The union of The Prince and Princess of Wales was blessed with two sons: Prince William, born on June 21, 1982, and Prince Harry, born on September 15, 1984.
Family Life in the Public Eye
The royal couple, along with their sons Prince William and Prince Harry, were often seen together during their holidays, like the one in the Scilly Isles in 1989. Throughout their marriage, The Prince and Princess of Wales undertook numerous overseas tours and fulfilled many engagements within the UK.
Separation and Divorce
On December 9, 1992, a significant announcement came from Prime Minister John Major to the House of Commons: The Prince and Princess of Wales had decided to separate. The dissolution of their marriage was finalized on August 28, 1996. Despite the divorce, the Princess remained a respected member of the Royal Family, continuing her charitable work and residing at Kensington Palace.
Tragic Passing of Princess Diana
The tragic car accident that led to the death of The Princess on August 31, 1997, in Paris, was a moment of profound sorrow. The Prince of Wales, accompanied by her two sisters, traveled to Paris to bring her body back to London. During the funeral, The Prince of Wales and his sons, 15-year-old Prince William and 12-year-old Prince Harry, along with The Duke of Edinburgh and Earl Spencer, walked solemnly behind her coffin from The Mall to Westminster Abbey.
Protecting His Sons’ Privacy
Following the funeral, The Prince of Wales requested the media to respect the privacy of his young sons, advocating for them to have a normal school life. Prince William and Prince Harry, under their father’s guidance, participated in a limited number of official engagements in the UK and abroad.
Marriage to Camilla Parker Bowles
A new chapter began on April 9, 2005, when The Prince of Wales married Camilla Parker Bowles in a civil ceremony at the Guildhall, Windsor. Post-marriage, Mrs. Parker Bowles was known as HRH The Duchess of Cornwall.
Celebration at Windsor Castle
The wedding of The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall was marked by a Service of Prayer and Dedication at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, attended by around 800 guests. The ceremony was followed by a reception at Windsor Castle, hosted by Her Majesty The Queen.
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Role as The Prince of Wales
As The Prince of Wales – King Charles III, His Majesty supported Queen Elizabeth II in a role that was pivotal for fostering national pride, unity, and allegiance. He was instrumental in bringing people together across various societal sections, representing stability and continuity. His role was significant in highlighting achievements and emphasizing the value of service and the voluntary sector, which he did through encouragement and personal example.
Military Duties and Support
His Majesty King Charles III, as The Prince of Wales, was a fervent supporter of the Armed Services, viewing this as a crucial aspect of his role as Heir to The Throne. His engagement with the Armed Services encompassed three main areas:
- Promoting the role of the Armed Services in national life through operational visits, ceremonial duties, and commemorative activities both in the UK and globally.
- Supporting the welfare and interests of Service personnel, veterans, and their families.
- Maintaining the history and heritage of the Armed Services, with connections to regiments, units, and formations in the UK and throughout the Commonwealth.
Working in the United Kingdom
- Wales: Since becoming The Prince of Wales at nine, King Charles III maintained a deep and lasting connection with Wales. His patronage extended to several Welsh charities and organizations, such as The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Ty Hafan, and the children’s hospice in Wales.
- Scotland: His Majesty King Charles III holds a special affection for Scotland. Known as the Duke of Rothesay in Scotland, he spent considerable time there, both for public engagements and private visits to Birkhall on the Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire. He is the Patron of numerous Scottish organizations, including the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.
- Northern Ireland: Regular visits to Northern Ireland were a part of His Majesty’s duties, with many of his charities, like The Prince’s Trust and Business in the Community, being active in the province. As The Prince of Wales, he took a keen interest in the renovation of Hillsborough’s house and gardens, aiding in its transformation into a significant tourist attraction in Northern Ireland.
- Engagements and Patronage in England: In addition to fulfilling numerous engagements each year in England, The King has been a significant presence at various important national events across the country. His Majesty’s role extended beyond ceremonial appearances, as he took on the patronage of several specifically English organizations. These include the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), which is synonymous with British theatrical excellence, and the Safer London Foundation, an entity committed to enhancing community safety.
- His Majesty King Charles III also supported cultural and heritage preservation through his involvement with the Mary Rose Trust, an organization dedicated to the famous Tudor warship, and the Turner Society, which honors the legacy of the renowned painter J.M.W. Turner. His connection with the agricultural sector was evident in his patronage of the Sussex Cattle Society and the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, reflecting his interest in rural life and conservation.
- Furthermore, King Charles III’s commitment to social welfare and community support was showcased through his support for Age Concern England and the Elgar Foundation, focusing on the well-being of the elderly and the promotion of musical heritage, respectively. Additionally, his patronage of Taste of the West emphasized his support for regional culinary excellence, promoting the produce and gastronomy of South West England.
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Diplomatic Role and International Engagement
As The Prince of Wales King Charles III, His Royal Highness undertook annual overseas trips at the behest of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. These tours served multiple purposes: they furthered British diplomatic interests, raised the UK’s profile in the countries visited, and showcased British excellence. These royal tours also provided the Heir with invaluable experience in understanding a wide range of international issues and facilitated meetings with numerous Heads of State and senior officials.
Promotion and Protection of British Traditions and Values
In his role, The Prince of Wales (King Charles III) was not just supporting The Queen as Head of State and acting as a charitable entrepreneur; he was also deeply involved in promoting and safeguarding the country’s enduring traditions, virtues, and excellence. His efforts included:
- Bringing attention to achievements or issues that might otherwise remain unnoticed.
- Supporting rural and farming communities across Britain.
- Promoting tolerance and understanding among different faiths and communities.
- Protecting the arts and advocating for traditional craft and heritage skills.
Championing Sustainability
For over five decades, The Prince of Wales utilized his unique position to drive action towards a sustainable future. In the face of global challenges like the climate crisis, deforestation, and ocean pollution, The Prince tirelessly worked to promote sustainability. His focus was on safeguarding natural assets — such as soil, water, forests, a stable climate, and fish stocks — for the benefit of future generations.
Sustainability Initiatives and Practical Outcomes
Over the years, The Prince of Wales launched various sustainability initiatives aimed at achieving tangible results. A notable example is the Sustainable Markets Initiative, launched in late 2019. His Royal Highness not only addressed environmental challenges but also promoted a sustainable approach in urban planning and community design. This approach aimed to enhance the social, natural, and built environments, underscoring his commitment to integrating sustainability into every aspect of modern living.
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Review of Royal Patronage and Charities
With His Majesty The King’s accession to the throne, a significant review process has been initiated within the Royal Household concerning Royal Patronage. This comprehensive review aims to assess and reevaluate the patronage roles and responsibilities that were previously held by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as well as those organizations that were connected to The King and The Queen Consort during their tenure as The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall.
This review is pivotal in ensuring that the Royal Patronage remains relevant, effective, and aligned with the current and future objectives of the Royal Family. It will encompass a wide range of charities, foundations, and organizations across various sectors, reflecting the diverse interests and commitments of the Royal Family. The outcome of this review is expected to shape the philanthropic and societal engagement of the Royal Household, particularly under the new reign of His Majesty The King.
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FAQs About King Charles III
Q: How old is King Charles III?
A: King Charles III is 75 years old, born on November 14, 1948.
Q: How long has Charles been king?
A: Charles has been king for less than one and a half years, ascending to the throne after the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022.
Q: Who will be king after Charles?
A: After King Charles III, the throne will pass to his son, Prince William, the Prince of Wales. Following Prince William, the line of succession includes his three children and then Prince Harry.
Q: Can Prince Harry be king?
A: If Prince William passes away before King Charles III, the throne would not go to Prince Harry. Instead, it would pass to Prince William’s eldest son, Prince George.
Q: Who was King Charles III’s first wife?
A: King Charles III first married Lady Diana Spencer in 1981. They had two sons, William and Harry, and divorced in 1996. Princess Diana died in a car crash in 1997.
Q: What has King Charles III been diagnosed with?
A: Buckingham Palace has announced that King Charles III has been diagnosed with a form of cancer. The specific type has not been revealed, but it is confirmed not to be prostate cancer.
Q: Will Prince Harry return to England?
A: Following the announcement of King Charles III’s cancer diagnosis, reports suggest that Prince Harry will return to the UK. This information comes from a source close to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer. What will happen now?
King Charles III’s Cancer Diagnosis and Its Implications
King Charles III has been diagnosed with cancer. This raises important questions about what happens next in the UK’s constitutional framework.
Buckingham Palace’s Announcement on King Charles III
Buckingham Palace confirmed that King Charles III does not plan to delegate his royal duties while he undergoes cancer treatment. This decision was made public on February 6, 2024.
Regency Act of 1937: Handling Monarch’s Incapacitation
Britain’s Regency Act of 1937 outlines procedures for different situations, such as a young monarch, permanent or temporary incapacitation, or absence due to travel.
King Charles’s Preference Against Appointing Counsellors of State
The palace has stated that King Charles prefers not to appoint counsellors of state during his recovery, unlike the practices followed by his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, and during his own foreign travels.
Constitutional Roles and Limitations of Counsellors of State
A discussion on the roles and limitations of counsellors of state, who can perform most of the monarch’s duties, with specific exceptions.
Historical Context and Previous Instances of Regency
The article provides historical context, citing the case of George V and the complexities surrounding the regency of King George III.
King Charles’s Health in Context: Past Monarchs and Cancer
The piece reflects on previous British monarchs who have faced health issues, notably George VI, King Charles’s grandfather, who had lung cancer.
Constitutional Provisions in Case of a Monarch’s Death During Elections
The UK constitution has specific provisions for the event of a monarch’s death around an election period.
Abdication and Amendments to the Regency Act
Discussion on the possibility of abdication and the amendments made to the Regency Act in 1953, focusing on the succession and regency.
Future Scenarios: Succession and Potential Regents
Exploration of future scenarios, including the role of Prince Harry as a potential regent and the consideration of appointing Kate, William’s wife, as a prospective regent.
The UK’s Constitutional Provisions for an Incapacitated Monarch
The UK has several constitutional provisions in place to address the scenario of an incapacitated monarch. These provisions aim to ensure continuity and stability in government even if the monarch is unable to fulfill their duties.
Here’s a breakdown of the key elements:
Regency Acts:
- These are the primary legal framework for dealing with monarchial incapacity.
- The Regency Act 1937, the most important one, outlines two situations:
- Permanent incapacity: If the monarch is deemed permanently incapacitated due to “infirmity of mind or body,” a “Regent” is appointed to carry out their royal functions. This role usually falls to the heir apparent (the eldest child), unless they are under 18 or themselves incapacitated.
- Temporary incapacity or absence: If the monarch is temporarily unable to perform their duties due to illness or absence from the UK, they can appoint “Counsellors of State” to act on their behalf. These are usually senior members of the Royal Family over the age of 21, excluding the heir apparent unless they are over 18.
Key points to remember:
- Trigger: Determining incapacity requires a formal process involving doctors and other officials.
- Limitations: Even in a Regency, some royal functions remain reserved for the monarch, such as granting Royal Assent to certain bills.
- Precedence: While no monarch has been declared incapacitated in recent history, Counsellors of State have frequently carried out royal duties for temporary absences or illness.
- Public scrutiny: Decisions regarding incapacity and Regency are likely to receive significant public and media scrutiny.
(Image Source: https://www.royal.uk/the-king)
