Queen Elizabeth Has Died – So What Happens Now?
After 70 years on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022. When the Queen died, an automatic power transfer occurred, transforming Prince Charles into King Charles III. Much more is happening as titles change, and the United Kingdom adjusts to the authority of a new monarch.
Those in line for the throne all rose through the ranks. Some of the changes occurred instantly. Prince William and his wife Kate being appointed to the titles of Duchess and Duke of Cornwall, in addition to the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge. Camilla, King Charles’ wife, also became Queen Consort. King Charles recently bestowed the title of Prince of Wales on William, making him the next in line to the throne.
The formal declaration of the new king did not take place until September 10, when a secret ceremony at St. James’s Palace was overseen by the Accession Council of around 200 members. Charles vowed to dedicate the remainder of his life to following his mother’s “inspiring” example. “God Save the King,” Council members said in response to King Charles’ solemn oath. Women attended for the first time, including newly elected Prime Minister Liz Truss, previous Prime Minister Theresa May, Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, and House of Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt.
Everything will culminate with the coronation, which will take some time. According to AP News, Queen Elizabeth was the monarch for 16 months before her coronation. A religious service, music, and speakers will be part of the ceremony at Westminster Abbey. At the culmination of the ritual, the Archbishop of Canterbury will crown the new king.
