We lost the American colonies because we lacked the statesmanship to know the right time and the manner of yielding what is impossible to stop. [HM Elizabeth II]
This will seem almost traitorous to many of my fellow Caribbean natives, but I am not a monarchist. In fact, nothing offends my sense of nationalism more than seeing so many of my people maintain a level of fealty to British Royalty that would shame even the most obsequious servant in the royal household. After all, I have been quite unabashed in agitating for our regional governments to not only abolish allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth but also rid our societies of all the colonial vestiges that flow from her “Sovereign” fountain of honors (like knighthoods and Orders). But you can read more about that bad news stuff here.
Because today is the Queen’s 80th birthday and the good news for all of her subjects is that, looking as fit as she does, she is destined to live longer than her mother (who died at 101). And, as if to perish any thought of abdication, the Queen dispatched one of her most trusted ladies-in-waiting this week to inform the BBC that she considers her role as monarch:
…a job for life [and that] she wouldn’t consider not continuing to fulfil those vows until she dies.
God Save the Queen!
Happy Birthday your Majesty!
NOTE: The news of the week was clearly Chinese President Hu Jintao’s visit to the United States. And, in addition to my article from Tuesday below, I invite you to click here to read my Caribbean perspective on his visit.
Queen Elizabeth II, British Royalty, Monarchy
Legacy Note: With over 5,600 posts spanning 20 years, I am easily the most prolific blogger on the most eclectic array of topics on the web. That makes The iPINIONS Journal an unparalleled archive of informed political and cultural commentary. Visit the ARCHIVES section in the sidebar or search by topic. You won’t find a more consistent, independent voice on world affairs.
Tanya says
Boy Anthony, do you have a death wish or what?
Anonymous says
I wish I had your courage because I think our people who sell their souls for royal titles are fools. Some of them would betray their grandmothers to be called “Sir” or “Lady” so and so.
God bless brother!
mary says
I cannot stand the royal family! Parasites that contribute absolutely nothing to society.
mary says
I love your carribean perspectives that you write as well because I find it extremely educational and the humor of course! You must be a scream at a party!!!
Richard says
I agree with Mary
What I don’t get is why so many Americans fawn over royalty. Doesn’t this make us hypocrites?
Anonymous says
No disrespect to the Queen but the article you linked to at the end of this article on how much control the Chinese have over the Caribbean is the real news. I had no idea they were buying political influence like this. God help those Caribbean countries. And you are right, I think they will find that America’s infuence wasn’t so bad when the Chinese reveal their hand.