King Charles III, who was born on November 14, 1948, in Buckingham Palace, London, is a member of the British royal family and the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip. He was named after his grandfather, King George VI, and his full name is Charles Philip Arthur George. On 6th May 2023 he was formally crowned as King of Britain. Here are 10 fun facts about King Charles III, the new and reigning King of Great Britain.
1. He is the longest-waiting heir
King Charles III’s long wait to ascend to the throne has been a defining feature of his life. He has been the heir apparent since he was three years old, making him the longest-waiting heir to the British throne. He surpassed the previous record of waiting set by King William IV, who waited for over 59 years.
2. He is the first reigning Monarch to hold a university degree
King Charles III received his education at Gordonstoun School in Scotland, which is known for its challenging outdoor activities. The King then went to Trinity College, part of the University of Cambridge, from 1967 to 1970. A few years later, in 1975, The King was awarded a Master of Arts by Cambridge – not a postgraduate qualification but rather an academic rank. His Majesty is the first reigning monarch to hold a university degree.
3. He got divorced from his first wife
In 1981, King Charles III married Lady Diana Spencer, who became the Princess of Wales. The couple had two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, but their marriage was troubled, and they separated in 1992. In 1996, the couple divorced, and Princess Diana died tragically in a car crash in Paris the following year.
4. He is the first to marry a divorcee
After Princess Diana’s death, King Charles III became more public about his relationship with Camilla Parker Bowles, whom he had known for many years. In 2005, he married Camilla, and she became the Duchess of Cornwall. This was the first time in history that a member of the British royal family had married a divorcee.
5. He is passionate about the environment
King Charles III is passionate about environmental issues and has been involved in many environmental campaigns. He is the founder of The Prince’s Trust, which helps young people gain skills and confidence to find employment or start a business. He is also the founder of The Prince’s Foundation for Building Community, which focuses on sustainable architecture and urban design.
6. He has a great love for architecture
King Charles III’s interest in architecture has been a defining feature of his life. He has often criticized modern designs and prefers classical styles. He has designed several buildings himself, including the housing development in Poundbury, Dorset. He has also been involved in the design of the Prince’s Foundation’s projects, such as the restoration of Dumfries House in Scotland.
7. He is a published author
King Charles III has authored several books, covering a wide range of topics. His first book, “A Vision of Britain,” was published in 1989 and covers his views on architecture, urban design, and the environment. His second book, “Harmony: A New Way of Looking at Our World,” was published in 2010 and focuses on the need for a more holistic approach to environmental issues.
8. He owns an organic farm
King Charles III is the owner of the Duchy Home Farm, which is an organic farm located in Gloucestershire. The farm produces organic meat and vegetables, which are sold to local retailers and restaurants. He is a strong advocate for organic farming and has spoken out against the use of genetically modified crops.
9. He is a patron of the arts
King Charles III is a patron of the arts and is particularly interested in promoting classical music. He has founded several music organizations, including The Prince’s Foundation for Children and the Arts, which focuses on bringing arts education to disadvantaged children.
10. He has a personal coat of arms
King Charles III has his own personal coat of arms, which he designed himself. The coat of arms features a shield divided into four parts, representing England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It also features a crown, a coronet, and several other symbols that represent his interests and family.
Conclusion
As King Charles III begins his reign, there is much anticipation and speculation about what his reign will bring. He is expected to continue his focus on environmental issues and sustainable architecture, as well as his support for the arts. We wish him a successful reign on the throne.
