PDF Summary:The Making of a King, by Robert Hardman

King Charles III's long-awaited ascension to the throne was no surprise, as he spent decades preparing through military service, charity work, and observing his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. The Making of a King by Robert Hardman explores Charles's readiness for his role as the new monarch of the United Kingdom and the transition of power from Elizabeth II's reign.

As monarch, Charles aims to blend tradition with change, honoring royal customs while putting his own modern spin on the role. Hardman examines Charles's first steps, including his coronation ceremony that bridged past and present. The book looks at thorny issues facing the Royal Family, such as relations with Harry and Meghan, republicanism in the Caribbean, and addressing Britain's colonial legacy.

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The ceremonies and national observances linked to the passing and collective memory of Queen Elizabeth II.

The plan known as Operation London Bridge.

The armed forces, different sectors of the government, along with the royal estate, spent many years meticulously planning and preparing.

Hardman emphasizes the impeccable execution of the state funeral for Queen Elizabeth II, crediting the extensive planning by the Royal Household, military units, and different government bodies over many years. Hardman regarded the plan as a template to be adhered to for Charles's coronation, which took place eleven months later.

The sovereign's final rites were designed to include a national service at Westminster Abbey, followed by a commitment ceremony for the body in Windsor, culminating in a private interment.

Hardman underscores the widely held view that a monarch of Elizabeth II's stature and global recognition would require three ceremonial observances: a state funeral at Westminster Abbey with global dignitaries in attendance, a secondary service at Windsor for the Royal Household and employees, and a final, private burial. This decision resulted in a unique array of challenges. The list of attendees for the abbey ceremony required substantial modifications to accommodate the heightened requirements for exact timing and synchronization. As a result, a series of difficult choices ensued.

The organization encountered several logistical challenges, such as accommodating foreign dignitaries, implementing security protocols, and orchestrating the transportation of the casket from Scotland to the capital of England.

The publication underscores the complexity of various organizational challenges. The event's organization entailed more than just arranging the order and timing of the parades; it also ensured that all participants had access to swift travel arrangements for their journey into and out of the capital. As Britain prepared for the arrival of an unparalleled gathering of world leaders, guaranteeing their protection was a top priority. The greatest obstacle involved transporting the late monarch's casket from where she passed away in Balmoral to London.

Occurrences unfolded at Balmoral.

The Queen's health deteriorated rapidly during her last forty-eight hours at Balmoral.

Robert Hardman provides an in-depth examination of the concluding phases of Elizabeth II's life. He notes the sovereign's meticulous execution of her official responsibilities right up until the final two days of her life. The unmistakable signs of her weariness were evident when the Queen carried out her last official act by receiving Liz Truss at Balmoral to appoint her as the new Prime Minister. However, Hardman underscores the steadfast dedication of Elizabeth II to her constitutional duties, which she maintained rigorously until her demise.

As Prince Charles moved across the Balmoral estate, he received the news of the Queen's death.

The writer thoroughly details the instance when the first child of the Queen, during a ride in his ceremonial vehicle, realized his future as the monarch. Hardman underscores the importance of the Prince rapidly adapting his perspective to embrace the responsibilities associated with ascending to kingship from his former role as a prince.

Upon ascending to the throne, the monarch was questioned by Sir Edward Young regarding the regnal name he wished to adopt.

Hardman highlights the subtle but important rituals and protocols that every ascending monarch must follow. Hardman underscores the importance of choosing a monarchical name under which to govern. King Charles III faced a pivotal moment of decision-making akin to the challenge his mother encountered in 1952. He opted to continue using 'Charles' for his reign, reflecting his mother's choice to use her birth name, even though this name has a complex past in Scotland.

Liz Truss was formally notified within a span of three days after taking on the position.

Hardman highlights the uncommon situation in which the newly instated leaders of state and government both had very little experience. Liz Truss had only occupied her position for a mere three days and Charles III had been king for barely an hour when he needed to approve the communication of plans to the international community.

Practical Tips

• You can create a personal contingency plan for your family that outlines what to do in the event of an emergency or a significant life event. Just as Operation London Bridge was a detailed plan for a specific event, you can draft a document that details who should be contacted, the roles each family member will play, and any necessary arrangements that must be made. This could include instructions for pet care, bill payments, or even funeral wishes, ensuring that your family is prepared for any situation.
• Develop a tradition or ritual to honor the memory of loved ones, drawing inspiration from national observances. This could be an annual gathering, a moment of silence, or a special activity that reflects the person's interests or values. For example, if a loved one was passionate about gardening, you might plant a tree or flowers in their memory each year.
• Practice clear and timely communication during significant life changes by setting up a system to notify friends and family. Similar to how key figures were promptly informed about Queen Elizabeth II's passing, you can establish a phone tree, email list, or a designated messenger app group to share important news efficiently. This ensures that everyone in your circle is kept up-to-date with critical information when it matters most.

Upon his rise to kingship, Charles embarked on implementing preliminary strategies, adjustments, and a strategic approach.

An Ascending Sovereign Acting Swiftly

The pace of decision-making accelerated with respect to royal affairs.

Hardman highlights the dedication of the monarch who cherishes the continuation of traditions and legacy, and, being in his seventies, he is determined to make the most of the time bestowed upon him by fate. The urgency for swift action has precipitated the hastening of corporate decisions which would normally be subject to extensive and careful consideration over several months. King Charles has retained the entire team of personnel and counselors who formerly worked for the Queen. He regards it as a tactical approach to preserve stability and foster consistency in the operations of the monarchy during these times of change. Individuals typically refrain from testing the monarch's tolerance or interfering with his concentration. Actions are thus carried out swiftly.

Overhauling the administrative functions and hospitality features of the palace.

As Hardman underscores, the monarch who has recently taken the throne is dedicated to leading substantial transformations globally and is equally intent on implementing changes at the core of the monarchy's administrative functions. He is particularly keen on modernizing the strategy for organizing events at the palace. Hardman reveals that in his royal engagements, the King consistently champions the modern '4 C's'—communities, the Commonwealth, climate, and culture—a suite of values he steadfastly maintained during his time as the Prince of Wales.

Expanding public access to the royal properties and residences.

Robert Hardman aims to enhance the public's access to all areas of the royal estates. A royal aide has been cited in the book characterizing Buckingham Palace as an establishment that serves the public, emphasizing its future increased openness to the general populace compared to its accessibility during the tenure of Queen Elizabeth II. Charles shows an openness to experimenting with various approaches to improve accessibility to his properties for the public. As Hardman notes, within the vast expanse of the royal estate, an intricate maze has been established, which not only pays tribute to the monarch but also entices visitors who might be reluctant to buy entry to the property.

Blending Tradition with Change

Queen Elizabeth II adeptly managed her responsibilities while maintaining an approachable and informal demeanor.

The writer describes the monarch's approach as building upon the heritage from his mother, adding a hint of casualness while avoiding too much closeness or personal connection. Within two months after his mother's death, Charles quickly took on his ceremonial duties, organizing a function at Buckingham Palace to pay tribute to the leader of Malaysia.

He preserved balance by aligning his individual pursuits with the traditional responsibilities and ceremonial occasions anticipated of a royal.

Hardman argues that Charles maintains a steadfast commitment to supporting public events and ceremonies that reinforce British traditions, similar to the dedication shown by Elizabeth II through her significant attendance at these events, while also recognizing the need to blend these with his distinct interests and endeavors. The author notes that the sovereign's choice to uphold the traditions of Royal Ascot, along with hosting his first state reception for a South African president at Buckingham Palace and commencing his initial state visit to Germany, sent a blend of signals in the realms of diplomacy, military, and economy that aligned with those of his forerunner, Elizabeth II. Hardman highlights the prince's strong commitment to maintaining long-established traditions while also advocating for the protection of the environment, illustrating his profound concentration on ecological issues. The King mandated that his first state dinner emphasize the use of local and seasonal produce and plants, showcasing his dedication to utilizing resources from the surrounding area. Hardman observes that although this viewpoint might not seem particularly groundbreaking in today's British society, it marks the rise of a monarch with unique individual and political ambitions.

Fostering an environment that appreciates diverse viewpoints while unwaveringly upholding loyalty to the Anglican church.

Hardman suggests that Charles's paramount task is to maintain the monarchy's enduring bond with the Church of England, while also promoting acknowledgment and esteem for the varied, multi-ethnic composition of contemporary Britain and its connected Commonwealth countries. The King is a devoted, devout Anglican He additionally holds the position of head of the Commonwealth, which is a collective of varied international societies representing a wide array of religious beliefs and factions. Charles approached his ascension to the throne, a challenge with which he had been engaged for a substantial part of his life, with a prepared and resolute mindset, as Hardman notes.

The onset of the new sovereignty will face numerous challenges and disagreements, including tackling republicanism and the complex relationships that exist within the royal family.

Breezes traversing the Atlantic Ocean.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have consistently been under scrutiny for their projects with Netflix and their publishing endeavors with a major book company.

In Hardman's view, the early phase of Charles's rule was marred by persistent adverse publicity stemming from Prince Harry, over which Charles had no control. The King chose not to respond publicly to the accusations from his younger son, an approach that Hardman interprets as indicative of Charles's dedication to upholding a stance of respectful neutrality. The author contends that retaliating against criticism with comparable censure would only heighten the scrutiny the Duke and Duchess of Sussex seek for their profitable revelations, while also giving critics a chance to assert that he has overstepped a royal protocol.

The monarch and his son, Prince William, opted to avoid participating in public debates over contentious remarks.

During this period, the prince remained publicly silent. He observes that William is distinguished by his fervent disposition and prioritizes the protection of his own privacy more than his father Charles. Hardman is of the opinion that the prince was probably profoundly impacted by the severe critiques directed at both his partner and the institution, along with the personal admonishments from Harry. The author suggests that the prince's decision to avoid public criticism of his brother was probably influenced by advice from Charles. Hardman posits that it was Charles's duty, in his role as monarch, to ensure that familial disputes did not intensify into major confrontations. In attempting to counter the most extreme claims from the Sussexes, King Charles and Prince William unintentionally increased public curiosity, thereby enhancing the Sussexes' financial gains.

Public opinion polls indicate that support for the monarchy has remained mostly stable.

Hardman convincingly argues that the decision of the King, along with his counselors, to maintain a dignified silence was a deliberate and considered one. Throughout this period, the monarchy maintained a favorable image in the eyes of the populace, as evidenced by numerous surveys. Interest in Harry and Meghan appeared to diminish, while at the same time, there was a growing recognition of Charles and William's commitment to their responsibilities.

Feelings of republicanism, as well as the regions linked to the crown.

A rising contingent of vocal republicans within the United Kingdom

Hardman acknowledges the challenges faced by a sovereign in leading a multifaceted society through the remnants of colonial influence and the splits caused by Brexit, amidst global turbulence. Hardman underscores the importance of a monarch's ability to evolve with the times, highlighting that Queen Elizabeth II has consistently upheld this practice during her long tenure. Robert Hardman believes that Charles III possesses the necessary resilience to tackle any major historical challenges that may arise.

The intricate matter concerning compensation related to the practice of enslavement in Caribbean regions.

For Hardman, the contemporary challenge emerges due to an increasing demand for addressing historical racial wrongs in the Caribbean regions under the monarch's rule. Hardman argues that the situation is markedly different from republicanism, with no Caribbean country demonstrating a desire to leave the Commonwealth; in fact, their behavior indicates a tendency to stay within this association. The political bodies keen on moving away from monarchical governance are also passionate about reinforcing their ties with Britain while endorsing the King's leadership within the Commonwealth. Hardman posits that the challenge of removing Charles III from power will differ among his sovereign territories, all of which have their own distinct constitutional structures. Charles often expresses the opinion that the decision on this matter should be left to the people, rather than him making the choice.

The sovereign showed a commitment to acknowledging past errors and staying attuned to the changing global environment.

Hardman believes that Charles has a deep comprehension of the modern discussions that will shape his reign. Before he became Jamaica's monarch and took on the mantle of leadership across various Caribbean territories, he acknowledged the lasting scars that the atrocities of slavery have imprinted on our shared history. Hardman observes that Charles III, the monarch, displays a clear willingness to make bold statements. He mentions the instances when Charles visited Barbados and Rwanda while serving as the Prince.

Exploring Different Domains and Cultural Backgrounds.

The sovereign's steadfast dedication to promoting inclusiveness, diversity, and racial equity.

Hardman considers Charles's role to be an extension of his long-established endeavors. For over half a century, Charles has passionately and actively advocated for the enhancement of social bonds and the advancement of the diverse ethnic groups within Britain, despite sometimes lacking articulacy. Hardman points to Charles's enduring backing of the Notting Hill Carnival, his advocacy for Islamic Studies, his commitment to aiding refugees and asylum seekers, and his involvement with Britain's Jewish community as illustrative examples.

The potential for the 'Three Rs' debate to overshadow and define his entire reign

Charles will need to invest more effort than his mother in addressing the challenges of race, realms, and republicanism, often referred to as the 'Three Rs', particularly in examining the historical connections of the monarchy with organizations that have profited from slavery. Charles is set to address the lasting impacts of previous times and a global movement of reevaluating historical periods, unlike Elizabeth II, whose rise to the throne aligned with the British Empire's waning influence and the rise of a modern network of independent states formerly under British rule.

The book delves into the sovereign's duties in steering the Commonwealth and ruling over multiple countries.

Charles III understands the importance of addressing this matter directly, as Hardman observes, while also maintaining a distance from political engagement. He must not only be well-informed and ready to offer his insights when needed, but it is equally important that his involvement seems personal.

Other Perspectives

• While Charles accelerated decision-making, some may argue that rapid decisions could risk overlooking important details or long-term implications.
• Retaining the Queen's team might provide stability, but it could also hinder necessary innovation and adaptation to new challenges.
• Modernizing palace functions is commendable, but there could be concerns about the costs involved and whether such changes align with public expectations of royal tradition.
• Increasing public access to royal properties is a positive step, but it must be balanced with privacy and security considerations for the royal family.
• Balancing tradition with change is a delicate act, and some traditionalists might feel that too much change could erode the monarchy's historical identity.
• While appreciating diverse viewpoints is important, there may be concerns about how this aligns with the monarch's role as the head of the Church of England, which has its own set of doctrines and beliefs.
• Avoiding public debates over contentious remarks might be seen as dignified, but some could interpret it as a lack of transparency or engagement with important public issues.
• Stable support for the monarchy in polls does not necessarily reflect the full spectrum of public opinion, and there may be underrepresented groups who are less supportive.
• Addressing historical racial wrongs is complex, and some may feel that the monarchy's efforts are either insufficient or that they should not be held accountable for historical actions.
• Promoting inclusiveness and diversity is a noble goal, but there may be differing opinions on the effectiveness and authenticity of royal initiatives in these areas.
• The challenges of race, realms, and republicanism are significant, and some may argue that the monarchy's approach is either too conservative or too progressive, depending on their viewpoint.
• Ruling over multiple countries in the Commonwealth is a colonial legacy, and some may question the relevance and appropriateness of this role in the modern world.

The inauguration of Charles III was executed with meticulous precision and deliberate coordination.

Tackling the project with a new viewpoint.

The ceremony maintained the customs set forth in 1953 while reflecting the current societal, political, and religious landscape of Britain.

Hardman portrays the organizers of Charles III's Coronation as having the intricate duty of blending traditional ceremonies from 1953 with the modern societal context of Britain. Therefore, Hardman emphasizes the collaborative endeavor involving the royal household's core team and the governing institutions in initiating the project. The Duke of Norfolk was primarily responsible for planning the coronation of Elizabeth II, and Prince Philip also played a notable role in the preparations.

Shortening the event's length and reducing the attendee count.

Hardman underscores the significance of condensing the ritual and reducing the number of participants. Hardman suggests that the splendor associated with the crowning ceremony can be effectively conveyed through television broadcasts, making it unnecessary for vast crowds to be physically present at the abbey.

Embracing a blend of inclusiveness and a broad spectrum of cultural representation.

Hardman underscores the significance of aligning the event's distinct religious elements with the sovereign's aim to ensure the inclusion of all major faiths and a wide array of ethnicities from modern Britain. The ritual underscores the monarch's obligation to protect all religions, even though they are an anointed follower of the Anglican Church. The King firmly intended to give a speech that underscored his desire for the core message of the classic Anglican hymn to be a defining feature of his coronation, which, as Hardman notes, was to serve every individual of varied religious convictions and creeds.

The sovereign's participation

The King exercised thorough oversight over every element of the Coronation, including the minutiae.

Hardman highlights the direct involvement of the monarch in orchestrating the details of his own coronation ceremony. The author notes that Charles III, drawing from his extensive life experiences and intent on imparting his personal touch, is poised to scrutinize the ceremony's details more closely than Elizabeth II when she ascended the throne in 1953.

The Earl Marshal, in conjunction with government departments and the Archbishop of Canterbury, meticulously coordinated the ceremonial proceedings.

The formation of numerous committees and subcommittees can be attributed to this reason, as noted by Hardman. Charles III sought to infuse the coronation ceremony with his own interests and passions, while also preserving the event's traditional essence. The writer notes that it was necessary for the King to sanction the selections of music.

Each detail was carefully planned to reflect the timeless principles of duty, heritage, and stability.

Hardman suggests that the monarch aimed for the coronation ceremony to represent a commitment to continuity, a steadfast link to age-old traditions, and a symbol of lasting steadiness, reintroducing parts of the ceremony that had not been seen for more than seven decades. For Hardman, a notable instance is the monarch's choice to uphold the custom of receiving anointment behind a decorative partition instead of beneath an unstable canopy. The author notes a transition in the king's clothing from simple to more elaborate, reflecting his journey towards fully assuming his regal responsibilities. During the previous coronation, the cameras did not capture these segments of the ceremony. The author, Hardman, suggests that Charles III pushes against the traditional boundaries of the royal institution while firmly upholding its long-established customs.

Balancing Continuity with Change

The ceremony pays tribute to the new sovereign's preferences while also upholding the customs established by past coronations.

Hardman underscores the delicate balance required to uphold longstanding traditions and adapt to modern shifts, all the while steering through the complexities tied to a thousand years of historical precedents established by the venerable guide for coronation rituals, the Liber Regalis. For Hardman, the crux of the ceremonial significance lay in the monarch's pledge to uphold all established traditional duties from the year 1953, even with the markedly smaller assembly. Charles insisted on the continuation of traditional practices related to the carrying of coronets, swords, jewels, and spurs, even though the peers were not present. The carriers would be composed of a diverse assembly of individuals, encompassing not only representatives from every nation within the Commonwealth but also people of various faiths and ethnic backgrounds. In this discussion, Hardman references figures including Lord Patel, a notable British Hindu, and underscores Baroness Benjamin's distinction as the first black individual to be honored with the Order of Merit. Hardman viewed the event as a seamless blend of uniquely Christian traditions with the varied cultural fabric that Britain represents.

Fostering inclusivity among different religious communities and advocating for women's involvement in spiritual rituals.

Hardman observes the particularly notable involvement of esteemed religious leaders from various denominations in the final segments of the ceremony. In a 1994 ceremony marked by its Anglican traditions, Charles declared his dedication to protecting the variety of religious beliefs. Charles's decision to include followers of all British faiths, from Sikhism to Zoroastrianism, in pledging their allegiance and unity as he left Westminster Abbey, stemmed from identical reasoning. Hardman argues that this change did not break with age-old traditions, since it occurred after Charles was crowned. He fulfilled all the customary duties prescribed by the Liber Regalis, as has been the case for every monarch since the 14th century.

The occasion was marked by the unintentional delay of the Wales family and the precariousness of the monarchy.

For Hardman, the combination of time-honored traditions and contemporary aspects, along with impromptu and carefully orchestrated components, resulted in inevitable minor mishaps. Hardman emphasizes the urgent need for a swift overhaul due to the Prince and Princess of Wales falling behind on their timetable. This led to some frank royal remarks about tardiness that garnered significant notice. During the ceremony, a fleeting moment of hesitation occurred when the Archbishop of Canterbury noticed that the crown, identified as St Edward's, seemed to be positioned unevenly upon the sovereign's head after it was placed. He once again placed it upon his head. For Hardman, these moments highlighted the vulnerability and personal aspects of the key figures central to a major occurrence.

As the coronation day drew to a close, the King remained poised and experienced a feeling of peace.

Hardman quickly emphasizes that the king, alongside his partner, consistently exhibited poise regardless of unforeseen circumstances and events. Hardman sees their relief as they rejoined the rest of the royal family after the service as natural, but he also points to the King's evident pride in the way it had all gone. The weather conditions were dismal, attendance had diminished, and indeed, several complications arose. Nevertheless, Hardman ultimately concludes that Charles III has indeed embraced his destiny and fulfilled his duties.

Other Perspectives

• While the ceremony aimed to reflect modern societal values, some may argue that it still did not fully represent the diversity of contemporary Britain or address the broader critiques of the monarchy's relevance in a modern democratic society.
• The decision to shorten the event and reduce attendees, while practical, could be seen as a missed opportunity for more extensive public participation in a significant historical moment.
• The emphasis on inclusivity and cultural representation may be viewed by some as merely symbolic rather than indicative of substantive changes in the monarchy's approach to multiculturalism and religious diversity.
• The King's thorough oversight of the Coronation details might be criticized as micromanagement or as overshadowing the roles of traditional institutions and experts in the planning process.
• The coordination by the Earl Marshal and various government departments could be seen as an unnecessary expenditure of public funds, especially in times of economic hardship.
• The focus on duty, heritage, and stability may be interpreted by some as a resistance to necessary change and an adherence to outdated traditions.
• The balance between the sovereign's preferences and established customs could be critiqued as prioritizing the individual tastes of the monarch over the evolving cultural and societal norms.
• The involvement of women and different religious communities, while progressive, might be criticized for not going far enough in challenging the established religious foundations of the monarchy.
• The unintentional delay of the Wales family could be seen as indicative of a larger issue of punctuality and organization within royal events, which are expected to run seamlessly.
• The portrayal of the King's poise and peace at the end of the coronation could be interpreted by some as downplaying any real challenges or controversies that may have arisen during his accession to the throne.