In a few weeks, thousands of spectators will gather to watch a greatly anticipated event: a royal wedding! On May 19th, Prince Harry of the United Kingdom will wed American actress Meghan Markle. Prince Harry is one of two princes of the United Kingdom. His grandmother is the queen, and one day his father will be king. Royal weddings give the United Kingdom a chance to show the world the splendor of their country.
Do you know how royals become royals? They’re born that way. The Queen of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II, has reigned for 66 years! She became queen after her father, King George IV, passed away.
There are 26 countries that recognize a royal family. Japan’s royal family has held the throne for over 2000 years! The United States, however, does not have a royal family. That’s because the U.S. has a different system of government, a democracy. That means that people are elected to be in charge. Part of the constitution says that most politicians have term limits [a maximum amount of years they can serve before needing to be reelected]. A royal, on the other hand, is a royal for life.
Some countries, like the United Kingdom have systems of government called a constitutional monarchy. That means that they have monarchs [the royal family], but they also elect politicians. The politicians pass and enforce laws just like politicians in the United States do. These elected officials might meet with monarchs, but it is the politician’s job to run government. The royal’s job is to represent the positivity and strength of their country. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding will be a celebration of the bride and groom, but also of the United Kingdom.
What About You? Are you excited for the Royal Wedding?
Photo Credit: Ian Jones/Alamy Stock Photo
