Charles III William

Charles was born at Buckingham Palace in London, the first grandchild of King George VI. He was created Prince of Wales in 1958, with an investiture ceremony at Caernarfon Castle in 1969. He attended Gordonstoun school in Scotland, following his father's footsteps, and later studied at Trinity College, Cambridge, where he earned a 2:2 in history in 1970. He also spent a term at the University College of Wales, Aberystwyth, to learn Welsh before his investiture. His education was unconventional for a royal, including periods of exchange in Australia and exposure to the arts.

As Prince of Wales, Charles established The Prince's Trust in 1976, a youth charity that has helped over a million young people. He also founded The Prince's Foundation, focusing on architecture, heritage, and sustainable communities. He was a vocal advocate for organic farming and environmental causes, speaking at the Rio Earth Summit in 1992. His charitable work spans over 400 organizations, covering areas such as education, health, and the arts. He also took on official duties representing the Queen, including state visits and investitures.

Charles III William acceded to the throne on 8 September 2022, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II. His coronation took place on 6 May 2023 at Westminster Abbey, the first British coronation in 70 years. He is the monarch of 15 Commonwealth realms, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. His reign has focused on continuity and modernization, with a slimmer monarchy and a commitment to public service. He has also continued his advocacy on climate change, hosting COP26 in 2021 as Prince of Wales.

Charles is a published author of children's books, including The Old Man of Lochnagar (1980), based on stories he told his younger brothers. He is an accomplished watercolourist, with works exhibited and sold for charity. He has a deep interest in alternative medicine, which has drawn criticism from the medical community. He is the first heir to the throne to have been born at Buckingham Palace, and the first to have attended a comprehensive school. He is also a patron of over 800 charities and organizations, and has a passion for classical music and gardening.

Heir apparent

The person first in line to the throne who cannot be displaced by another birth.

Commonwealth realms

Sovereign states that recognize the British monarch as their head of state.

Investiture

A ceremony in which a title or office is formally conferred.