Even as global media coverage shifts away from Queen Elizabeth II’s death, her absence continues to impact millions. In addition to being the emblem of Britain’s currency, many England natives viewed her as family, hailing her personability. Erin Brown, a European History teacher in MCPS, stated, “In World War 2, [the queen] was an ambulance driver.” The Royal Family’s “big thing was we’re in this just like everybody else, so that’s why Harry and William both served in the armed forces… [and] they (the Royal Family) stayed in London even when the Battle of Britain and the Blitz was going on.”
While many pro-monarchists in London are heartbroken, many are unfazed. The polarization across media coverage in British colonies (former and current) is undeniable. One prominent example is Ireland, which has been under British control for over eight hundred years. In an interview with the Washington Post, Naomi O’Leary, a correspondent for the Irish Times, said that many reacted to the Queen’s death with “some indifference because it’s not that important to everybody,” while others give credit to the Queen for being the first member of the Royal Family to set foot on Irish soil since 1911.
The reaction to Elizabeth II’s death in former British colonies differs widely, especially amongst those in the black diaspora. According to the Miami Herald, the Bahamas continue to honor their British rule-era governmental system, shifting the Prime Minister’s title from Queen’s Counsel to King’s Counsel. Whereas in Jamaica, leaders are appalled at the expectation of mourning. Rosalea Hamilton, an outspoken advocate for reparation and independence, says she “understands a nation’s grief, but also understands the legacy of colonialism. British wealth was built on the backs of enslaved Africans.”
History proves Hamilton right, as Britain stole countless artifacts and resources from former and current British colonies during the peak of the British Empire. Public discourse centers on the crown jewels. These pillars of the British monarchy were featured in the Queen’s funeral procession and are all products of colonialism. The infamous Great Star of Africa and the Kohinoor Diamond alone have a net worth of $2.5 million and $400 million, respectively. Still, the Royal family has failed to return them or provide restitution for their theft despite the wishes of their countries of origin. While the western narrative claims that the Kohinoor was a gift from the Maharajah of Punjab and the Great Star was another gift to the British, others insist the record-breaking jewels were stolen during the British’s intercontinental pillaging. It is important to note that there is little reliable evidence regarding the Maharajah of Punja’s relationship with the Royal Family. According to the New York Times, the Indian Government has begun “a campaign for the return of the historic 105.6-carat diamond.” Despite the outcry of India’s citizens and government, it is reported by France 24 that the Queen’s Crown is passed down to Camilla in her new role as Queen Consort. Brown says she agrees that the former colonies should be reimbursed and have their artifacts returned. At the same time, she notes how complicated that transaction would be and wonders “what that would even look like.”
While the sun sets on the British Empire, the Royal Family continues to benefit from their colonial past. According to the Deccan Herald, the members of the Royal Family have an estimated net worth of $28 billion. With the Queen’s funeral adding to about $1 million (and security resting at over $4.3 million), there are questions about funding sources. Brown says she understands the need for tight security at the funeral, given the number of dignitaries present. She states that it would be “devastating for the world” if an unfortunate event were to occur with all the royals present. Brown also hopes that, despite the funeral being a matter of state, the Royal Family would cover most of the cost, given their vast fortune.
Rising criticism against the House of Windsor is dangerous, as its members have always aimed for social acceptability in the public eye. Financial smoke and mirrors aside, the British monarchy is steadily declining in popularity amongst younger generations.
Article written by Abigail Nega of Winston Churchill High School
Graphic courtesy of Dhruv Narang of Landon School