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Dr. Anna Whitelock is a professor of early modern history at Royal Holloway University (where yours truly studied abroad), as well as the director of The London Centre for Public History. Having predicted that the British monarchy will be O-V-E-R by 2030, she has earned the “bearer of bad news” title for Monday, April 4th.
“All of those questions about ‘What the hell do we want this kind of unelected family (for)? What does that represent in Britain today?” Dr. Whitelock asked in a Youtube video, according to the Daily Express.
“All these profound questions have been held in check because of the Queen.”
The historian emphasized the public’s affection for Her Majesty, who has ruled since February 6th, 1952. There’s no question that the monarchy is stable so long as she is rules, but what will become of the House of Windsor when Prince Charles ascends to the throne?
“I think there’ll be a discussion and a debate in a way that there hasn’t before,” Dr. Whitehall declared.
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“As the older generation who are generally more wedded to the monarchy die out, the question of the future of the monarchy will become even more pressing, and then potentially more critical voices will come to the fore.”
So, when will things fall apart?
“I would say by 2030 there will be definite louder clamours for the eradication of the monarchy,” Dr. Whitehall predicted.
“I can’t say that there won’t be a monarchy. I would definitely say that the monarchy – its purpose, what it’s about, will be questioned and challenged in a way that it hasn’t been before.
“I don’t think it’s out of the question that the monarchy would be potentially be on its last legs.”
Dr. Whitehall’s quotes make for a lively debate, but the British monarchy has weathered some pretty nasty storms, but time and again has managed to bounce back in terms of popularity.
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There’s also the power of tradition, pomp and pageantry which the United Kingdom prides itself on. People look forward to watching a ceremony that has taken place for over 800 years, and there’s something to be said for oogling over sartorial pieces not unlike those from beloved fairy tales, such as state crowns, jewels and robes, for example.
Dr. Whitehall believes that the affection the public hold is strictly for the Queen, not the establishment.
“Whether you are a monarchist or not, and even fervent republicans, I think, no one is saying whilst the Queen is alive the monarchy should be abolished,” Dr. Whitehall said.
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“Everybody, given her constancy and given her selflessness, thinks she’s a pretty amazing woman, regardless of where you stand on the monarchy debate.
“After that, I think it’s going to be a free-for-all.”
Do you think the monarchy will disappear after the Queen’s reign ends?
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