The British kingdom was bathed in tears last night (Thursday) after the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II became known. Tonight (Friday), King Charles III addressed the nation for the first time. The speech was pre-recorded, exactly one day after the official announcement of his mother’s death.
Tributes to the Queen and Charles’ First Speech: A new era in Britain
Watch a live broadcast of what is happening in London:
- The end of an era: Queen Elizabeth dies at the age of 96
“In her lifetime, Her Majesty the Queen, my beloved mother, was the inspiration and example to me and my family. We owe her the greatest debt for her love, affection, guidance and understanding, and the example she set. Queen Elizabeth lived a worthy life. We mourn her deeply. The promise of a life of service Public I promise again,” he said at the beginning of his words.
“In 1947, on her 25th birthday, she pledged to the Commonwealth of Nations to dedicate her life, short or long, to the service of her people. It was more than a promise. It was a deep personal commitment that marked her entire life. She sacrificed for the mission. Her commitment never wavered In hard times and good times of sadness and loss, we have seen great love of tradition and embrace come forward without fear – making us a great nation.
“Affection and admiration have become the hallmark of her majesty. As my family can attest, she combined these qualities with warmth and humor and the ability to always see the good in people. I honor her life in public service. I know her death brings great sorrow to many of you – and I share it with All.
“When the Queen came to power, Britain and the world witnessed the consequences of the Second World War and lived by tradition. Over the years the situation changed, the institutions changed as well, but through all the changes and challenges, our nation and the extended family of the Commonwealth of which I am so proud, prospered and flourished. The values Ours remain and must remain steadfast, so is the duty and responsibility to the Church of England.
“I promise that as long as God allows me, wherever you live around the world and regardless of your background and beliefs, I will try to serve you with loyalty, respect and love. My life will surely change. I will not be able to give much time and organization to my charities. But I know that this important work will continue in the hands of others.
“It is also a time of change for my family. With the help of my loving wife Camilla, I know his commitment to public service. She has become my queen consort. She will bring to her duties a commitment that I value so much. My heir, William, succeeds me as Duke of Cornwall and takes The responsibility of the Duchy of Cornwall which I have carried for more than five decades. Today I am proud to crown him the Prince of Wales. A country I have come to love throughout my life.
“I want to express my love to Harry and Meghan who are rebuilding their lives. In about a week we will come together as an international community to bury my mother. Let us remember and be strengthened by the light of the example she gave me. On behalf of my entire family, I can only offer the most sincere thanks for your condolences and support.. Thank you. Thank you for The love and commitment to our family and the family of nations that served faithfully all these years. The angels will sing to you while you rest in your bed.”
Earlier, Charles arrived in the royal motorcade to the grounds of Buckingham Palace. The crowd that filled the plaza shook hands, handed out flowers, and even stole a kiss. He and his wife Queen Camilla passed by the many bouquets of flowers and letters placed at the entrance to the palace. Even earlier, he met for the first time in his position with the incoming Prime Minister, Liz Truss.
Charles III was the heir to the throne for the longest period in the history of British kings, a period that lasted 70 years and 7 months and during which he was called the Prince of Wales. He is the oldest British monarch to take office, at the age of 73. After his father Prince Philip died, Charles inherited the title of Duke of Edinburgh from him.