King Charles III – 75 Years Of Royal Style
King Charles III, formerly known as The Prince of Wales, ascended to the throne following the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022. On November 14th, 2023, Charles celebrates his 75th birthday and we take this opportunity to look at his remarkable life.
The King has played a pivotal role in establishing over 20 charitable organizations spanning a 40-year period. Including The Prince’s Trust, The Prince’s Foundation, and The Prince of Wales’s Charitable Fund (PWCF). King Charles has worked in close collaboration with numerous organizations, extending his public support to a wide array of causes related to the environment, rural communities, architecture, the arts, healthcare, and education. The King has always maintained a commitment to sustainability especially when it comes to his wardrobe.
The journey of Charles, born on November 14, 1948, commenced during the reign of his maternal grandfather, King George VI. He was the first child of Princess Elizabeth, Duchess of Edinburgh (later Queen Elizabeth II), and Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. The royal family expanded to include three more children: Anne (born 1950), Andrew (born 1960), and Edward (born 1964).
Charles embarked on his educational voyage under the guidance of governess Catherine Peebles when he turned five. The setting for his early education was none other than Buckingham Palace. Notably, Charles was the first heir apparent to attend a conventional school instead of receiving private tutoring. The founder and headmaster of Hill House School in west London, Stuart Townend, treated Charles without preferential favouritism. In fact, it was Townend who suggested that the young prince receive football training, as he believed in cultivating qualities that extended beyond royal distinctions, emphasizing that on the football field, the boys treated everyone as equals.
In 1969, Prince Charles enrolled for a term at the University College of Wales in Aberystwyth, which is today recognized as Aberystwyth University. During this period, his studies primarily focused on delving into the rich tapestry of Welsh history and mastering the Welsh language, a crucial step in his preparation for the formal investiture as the Prince of Wales.
Charles’ academic pursuit went beyond the confines of a typical university experience. His studies were marked by a commitment to paying homage to the intricate history of Wales and acknowledging the profound significance of the title he was about to inherit.
As Charles grew older, his early school days left a lasting impression, instilling in him a deep appreciation for sports. His enthusiasm for various athletic pursuits became an integral part of his character. From his educational years at Hill House School to his time spent at the University College of Wales in Aberystwyth, he developed not only a love for learning but also an enduring passion for sports.
One notable moment that reflects his multifaceted interests occurred during the Badminton Horse Trials in 1976. This event bore witness to Prince Charles’s sporting spirit, as he was often seen in a more casual and rugged appearance, complete with a beard. This transformation, coupled with his dedication to equestrianism and other outdoor activities, showcased a well-rounded gentleman with a genuine zest for life.
As Charles matured into the man we know today, his humanitarian efforts flourished far beyond his love for sports and interest in history. His journey as Prince of Wales was marked not only by royal duties but also by a deep commitment to making a positive impact on society. His dedication to humanitarian causes and his profound respect for people from all walks of life have been evident in his numerous charitable initiatives. Prince Charles’s philanthropic efforts span a wide range of issues, including the environment, architecture, health, and education. His passion for making the world a better place has touched countless lives and transcended political boundaries.
As he reaches the milestone of his 75th birthday, we celebrate not only the matured and wise King Charles III but also the remarkable journey of a prince who continues to bring people together, foster understanding, and advocate for a better future for all.