King Charles has had decades to prepare, but a tough road lies ahead

It was never going to be easy to follow in his mother’s footsteps. She was the youngest monarch in almost two centuries – he’s the oldest person to assume the British throne. 

Yet what he lacks in youth, King Charles III makes up for in preparation. Charles (73), born Charles Philip Arthur George, was three years old when his mother became queen at the age of 25 after the death of her father, King George VI. He’s been preparing for this role throughout her 70-year reign and as he gave his first speech following the queen’s death, he was every inch the monarch. 

“Queen Elizabeth was a life well lived,” he said in his first speech as king. “A promise with destiny kept and she is mourned most deeply in her passing. That promise of lifelong service I renew to you all today.”