Charles III (Charles Philip Arthur George; born 14 November 1948) is the King of the United Kingdom and 14 other Commonwealth realms. He ascended to the throne on 8 September 2022, following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. His coronation took place on 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey.

Early Life and Education

Charles was born at Buckingham Palace during the reign of his maternal grandfather, King George VI. He became heir apparent when his mother became queen in 1952. Educated at Cheam School and Gordonstoun, he also spent time at Timbertop, a campus of Geelong Grammar School in Australia. He later earned a degree in history from the University of Cambridge, becoming the first British heir apparent to do so.

Military Service

Charles served in both the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy from 1971 to 1976. His training included flying with the Cambridge University Air Squadron and serving on various naval vessels. He qualified as a helicopter pilot and commanded the coastal minehunter HMS Bronington.

Prince of Wales

Appointed Prince of Wales in 1958, Charles's investiture occurred in 1969 at Caernarfon Castle. He undertook numerous public duties, founded The Prince's Trust in 1976, and became a patron or president of over 800 organizations. He has been an advocate for environmental issues, organic farming, and traditional architecture.

Personal Life

In 1981, Charles married Lady Diana Spencer, with whom he had two sons: Prince William and Prince Harry. The couple divorced in 1996, and Diana died in a car crash in 1997. In 2005, Charles married Camilla Parker Bowles, who became Queen Consort upon his accession.

Reign

Charles became king upon his mother's death in 2022, making him the oldest person to accede to the British throne. His coronation in 2023 was a significant event, incorporating traditional Anglican rites and reflecting the diversity of modern Britain. In 2024, he was diagnosed with cancer, leading to a temporary suspension of public engagements.

References

• Charles III - Wikipedia
• Coronation of Charles III and Camilla - Wikipedia