The Queen’s legacy

Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, has passed away at the age of 96 leaving the British monarchy in disarray. She was notoriously reclusive throughout her reign as Queen, which spanned seven decades.

The Queen made her first recorded speech for the British Broadcasting Corporation’s (BBC) Children’s Hour from Windsor Castle during the World War II in 1940, while she was still a girl, providing solace to the British people 13 years before her coronation on June 2, 1953. The Queen strove to make her reign more contemporary and attentive to the changing needs of the people while upholding the traditions connected with the throne. However, by the time the Queen ascended to the throne, the concept of a British empress was no longer viable since the British Empire had already ended. Instead, the Queen was made incharge of the transition of the Empire into the Commonwealth, an entity in which she had great symbolic authority but little political power – not that she had any real political power anywhere else. She was not a head of state, but rather a figurehead for the country that provided stability and a steady hand.

During her early years in power, the Queen worked to strengthen Britain’s symbolic position in a world that was fast changing. Following her coronation, she and Prince Philip went on a six-month world tour that took them to 13 different countries in the Commonwealth, a confederation of countries that was founded by the British and included many of its former colonies.

Queen Elizabeth II was the head of the Commonwealth, a group of 54 countries that share common values and are committed to democracy, human rights, and free markets.

During her reign, Queen Elizabeth II was known for her strong support of colonialism. She was a key figure in promoting the idea that British colonialism was a good thing, and she helped to legitimise the practice by visiting various countries in the Empire. King Charles III may have different views on colonialism and he may work to end the practice. However, it’s also possible that he will continue to support colonialism somehow which could lead to more turmoil in the world. Whatever her successor’s views, it’s important to remember that the Queen’s legacy will continue to influence the world for years to come.

In her first Christmas speech in 1953, she said that the Commonwealth had no similarity to the empires of the past: “It is an innovative idea based on the best of human nature. As long as I live, I will do everything I can to make this new idea of racial and national equality working together come true.”

The death of Queen Elizabeth II left many Britons wondering what the future will be like for the country. For many, the question was not just limited to who will be the next monarch, but also about how Britain’s role in colonialism will be remembered.

Britain’s colonial legacy is often seen as a negative one. After all, it was Britain that started the slave trade, ruled over colonies with an iron fist, and exploited the resources of other countries. However, some argue that Britain’s involvement in colonialism was necessary to protect its interests.

After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, there was a widespread movement on social media calling on Britain to restore the diamonds her colonial troops had stolen from Africa and India. Numerous nations have recently requested the repatriation of British cultural artefacts. The Star of Africa and Koh-i-Noor are two of the world’s most precious jewels.

The Great Star of Africa diamond (also known as Cullinan I) is among the Queen’s most valued possessions. At almost 530 carats, it easily takes the title of the biggest diamond ever found. The Great Star of Africa was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and has an estimated value of $400 million. Many African historians allege that the diamond was taken or robbed by the British government during their colonial rule despite the fact that it was mined in 1905 and delivered to Edward VII. The Great Star of Africa has been embedded in the sceptre of the Queen.

Koh-i-Noor is a huge diamond which is the most famous diamond in the world. History professor Danielle Kinsey at the Carleton University in Ottawa has claimed that Koh-i-Noor has a history of being part of war loot or trophies obtained as a consequence of battle in South Asia. To that extent, it is emblematic of imperialism’s long tradition of theft. At least four countries, including India, have asked for the return of the Koh-i-Noor.

Maintaining stability during times of global change, the Queen has played a low key role in British politics. UK Parliamentarian Crispin Blunt said, “Her Majesty’s reign has been characterised by continuity—both in domestic policy and internationally—as well as boldness and innovation.”

The writer is a political enthusiast with interest in criminology, sociology, and world affairs