Activities full of historical facts, insights and fun learning opportunities
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What is the role of our King?
King Charles III became King in 2022 following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for more than 70 years. The King is a constitutional monarch. This means his roles are quite different from those of historical kings and queens. The King is known for his sense of duty and he has devoted his life to service. He has become a figurehead for the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth during a challenging time for many people around the world.
Scroll down to the 'Explore our linked images and objects' section to discover some of the responsibilities previous monarchs have undertaken in their role as Head of State.
Explore related collection objects
Royal Mint
Set of 4 Maundy coins, 2002 2002
Central Office of Information : London
The Queen addressing a crowd at Ramlila Ground, New Delhi, during her visit to India 28 - 28 Jan 1961
Central Press Photos Ltd. : 6-7 Gough Square, Fleet Street, London EC4
State Opening of Parliament : The Queen reads the Speech from the throne Oct 1958
Central Office of Information : London
The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visit Montserrat, West indies, 1966. 19 - 19 Feb 1966
Glasgow [Scotland]
Security passes for the XX Commonwealth Games 2014
Louis Haghe (1806-85)
Investiture of the Order of the Bath, 7 July 1855 signed and dated 1855
Eugène-Louis Gillot (1868-1925)
King George V and Queen Mary in Procession in Paris, 21 April 1914 Signed and dated 1914
Princess Victoria of the United Kingdom (1868-1935)
Page 23 of Princess Victoria's album: photographs of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, dressed for the State Opening of Parliament, February 1901 Feb 1901
London Pictures Service
President Mitterrand's State visit to Britain, 1984. 1984
Unknown Person