1 / 13A Busy Birthday: King Charles III, who turns 75 on Tuesday, is not one to rest. He spent his birthday actively promoting causes dear to him.
2 / 13Helping the Needy: Accompanied by Queen Camilla, Charles visited a project that redistributes food to the needy, preventing it from ending up in landfills.
3 / 13Monarchy Relevance: Since his mother, Queen Elizabeth II’s seven-decade reign, Charles has strived to demonstrate the monarchy’s relevance in modern British society.
4 / 13Apologies and Openness: He has made three overseas visits, opened the royal archives to researchers studying the crown’s links to slavery and expressed regret for past violence against Kenyans during their independence struggle.
5 / 13Vision for the Future: Historian Ed Owens suggests that Charles needs to articulate a clear vision for the monarchy’s future, as it faces new challenges and scrutiny.
6 / 13Royal Education: Charles, a history graduate from the University of Cambridge, spent six years in the Royal Navy before focusing on his duties as heir.
7 / 13Decades of Preparation: Charles’ long wait for the throne has given him more experience than his mother, who became queen at 25. His education outside the palace has equipped him with a broader perspective.
8 / 13Prince’s Initiatives: As Prince of Wales, Charles founded a charity for youth employment and training, started an organic food company, and advocated for conservation and environmental protection.
9 / 13Saluting Health Heroes: Later, he will also host a party for 400 nurses and midwives, celebrating the National Health Service’s 75th anniversary.
10 / 13Royal Departure: Harry and Meghan’s decision to leave royal duties and move to California has deprived the monarchy of a young couple who were expected to connect with younger people.
11 / 13Queen Camilla: Despite past controversies surrounding his first marriage to Princess Diana, Charles has found support in his second wife, Camilla Parker-Bowles.
12 / 13Coronation Announcement: Despite initial resistance, Charles made it clear at his coronation that Camilla would be recognized as queen: “The Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.”
13 / 13William’s Focus: Prince William, Charles’ heir, is now leading initiatives to combat climate change, fight homelessness, and promote mental health awareness.
