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English King Charles III faced a lot of pressure and did not perform according to expectations. Photo/Reuters
LONDON – King Charles III has taken a cautious but successful path in his first year on the British throne. But divisions within his family still haunted his reign.
Charles, 74, succeeded his mother Queen Elizabeth II when she died a year ago Friday aged 96 at her home at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, sparking national and global mourning at the end of her 70-year reign.
Here are 7 facts related to the one year reign of English King Charles III.
1. No Radical Reshuffle
Photo/Reuters
Critics of Charles, who has waited longer than any other heir in English history to become king, predict that he may undertake a radical overhaul of the monarchy. She would also ignore her mother’s very neutral and apolitical approach to the role.
However, in keeping with previous promises, he set aside his campaign on the environment and climate change and stayed within accepted boundaries.
Ingrid Seward, Editor-in-Chief of Majesty Magazine, said her reign had started “very well”. He has sought to highlight his achievements in office, although the pressure of dealing with the British media has hampered wider change.
“I just think he’s really busy with everything that’s going on this year, Seward said. “He has his own things to do, but first and foremost is his duty to be king.”
2. Surprised by the Workload of a King
Photo/Reuters
An unnamed friend of King Charles told the Sunday Times newspaper that Charles found the workload surprising, but he was settled into his role.
“He seemed very content and happy, after mourning the loss of his mother, he felt at ease. His destiny had come and he accepted it,” a close friend told the newspaper. Meanwhile his aides said that the king and his officials were being careful.
Media reports say he will soon launch an initiative to combat food waste, something in line with his long-term sustainability advocacy. The newspaper said he was also trying to reduce the number of staff at his home.
3. Stuck in Ceremonial
Photo/Reuters
