King Charles’s coronation: Can the British monarchy shed its imperial past? The coronations of English monarchs back to Edgar in 973 CE mark transitions in power, define monarchs and their subjects and distinguish human skills of governance from those that are supposedly divinely imparted. The legacy of colonization by the British Empire - and of decolonization efforts in the United Kingdom in the 20th and 21st centuries - is weighted with trauma and questions of identity and nationhood. King Charles's coronation: Should Canada become a republic? That’s an especially important aim today since the monarchy’s identity now and into the future is at stake. This display is intended to capture attention, reinforce British identity and immerse British and Commonwealth citizens in the sovereign-subject relationship. Edward’s Crown, the Sovereign’s Sceptre, the Sword of State and the Sovereign’s Orb, as well as coronation clothing embedded with precious gems. Nonetheless, other Crown Jewels will be on full display through much of the ceremony: St.

There have been calls for the Koh-i-Noor diamond to be repatriated to South Asia amid public debates about Britain’s colonizing history (although the Indian government has said it officially has laid this claim to rest). The Royal Family is aware of this history that’s likely why it opted against including the Koh-i-Noor diamond in the coronation ceremony.

These diamonds have a painful history and yet two of them are taking centre stage at King Charles’s coronation at a time of acute post-colonial pain. Prince Charles, now the king, reads the Queen’s speech as he sits by the Imperial State Crown in the British Parliament in May 2022.

21 lessons for 21st century