The Queen and the Commonwealth; A Platinum Jubilee Tribute

Between February 1952 and 2015, when the Queen last made an overseas visit, she also visited all but two Commonwealth countries (Cameroon and Rwanda) making nearly 200 trips and visits to Commonwealth and UK Overseas Territories. With many undertaken in the context of Cold War rivalry and tensions over decolonisation, these visits aimed to sustain the Commonwealth despite its racial and ideological divisions.

There are still fourteen Commonwealth realms where the Monarch retains a ceremonial role as head of state. It is likely that many states will follow the example of Barbados, which became a republic in 2021.

However, despite the growing number of Commonwealth republics, the Crown’s role as Commonwealth Head seems set to be secure for another generation. While the role of Head of the Commonwealth is not hereditary, in 2018 Charles, Prince of Wales, was appointed as the Queen’s designated successor.

See also: Elizabeth and Philip, a Royal Romance; a Platinum Jubilee Tribute