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Prince William is one of the most important people in the United Kingdom right now, and his ascension to the throne is a major event. In this video, we’ll explore what this ascension means for the United Kingdom and the world at large. We’ll discuss the political ramifications and the social implications of this landmark event. So be sure to watch this video to find out what will happen when Prince William becomes King!
Britain’s monarchy is one of the oldest in the world to still fulfil a constitutional function, stretching back more than 1,000 years, with a brief revolutionary interlude in the 17th century.
The monarch in Britain fulfils the function of head of state, as well as being a ceremonial figurehead and international ambassador for the nation. There is never a time where the throne is vacant, meaning that when one monarch dies, their successor immediately takes on the crown.
When Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022, her eldest son, Prince Charles, acceded to the throne as King Charles III. In his new role, Charles swiftly appointed his heir, Prince William, as the new Prince of Wales.
Britain’s monarchy is one of the oldest in the world to still fulfil a constitutional function, stretching back more than 1,000 years, with a brief revolutionary interlude in the 17th century.
The monarch in Britain fulfils the function of head of state, as well as being a ceremonial figurehead and international ambassador for the nation. There is never a time where the throne is vacant, meaning that when one monarch dies, their successor immediately takes on the crown.
When Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022, her eldest son, Prince Charles, acceded to the throne as King Charles III. In his new role, Charles swiftly appointed his heir, Prince William, as the new Prince of Wales.
Unless William predeceases his father, abdicates or the monarchy were to be abolished before Charles’ death, the prince will be the next royal to take on the duties of monarch.
Here, Newsweek looks at what will happen when William becomes king.
What Will Happen When King Charles III Dies?
When King Charles III’s death is announced, an official statement confirming the news will be issued from Buckingham Palace which is distributed to the media.
The moment Charles dies, William will become king. Thereafter, the members in the royal family in the official order set to inherit the throne (known as the line of succession) will move forward one place.
William’s eldest son, Prince George, will become the first in line to the throne and his heir apparent.
If William is out of the country at the time he becomes king, he will immediately make his journey home and when in Britain will likely travel to London to broadcast his first speech to the nation as monarch.
What Name Is William Likely To Use?
When William becomes king, Buckingham Palace will confirm the name under which he will reign.
Previous monarchs have sometimes chosen to rule under a different name to the one they were known by before their accession, such was the case with William’s great-grandfather, King George VI.
The king was born Prince Albert, but adopted his father’s name of “George,” which had stronger British connotations.
Before Charles’s accession, there had been speculation that he would reign under the name of “George VII.”
It is likely William will choose to reign under his own name, and as such would be known as: “King William V.”
The first King William of Britain is better known as William the Conquerer. The last, King William IV, was the uncle to Queen Victoria and reigned from 1830 to 1837.
What Happens to Kate Middleton when William Becomes King?
When William becomes king, his wife, Kate, will assume the courtesy title of “Queen Consort.”
There are three types of queen in the British monarchical system: A Queen Regnant, who reigns in her own right; a Queen Consort, who is queen because her husband is king; and a Queen Dowager, who is the widow of a king.
Though Kate may be referred to as “The Queen Consort” for a time after William’s accession, she would likely be referred to officially as “The Queen” and “Queen Catherine” soon after.