The first week of my World War II Study Abroad experience was spent in London, England at a very exciting time in the country. This past Saturday, May 8th, the United Kingdom crowned King Charles III in the nation’s first coronation ceremony in seven decades. Filled with pageantry and spectators, London seemed to be brimming with national pride for the duration of our trip. Symbolizing this national pride, the Union Jack flew over many important streets and buildings throughout Central London, such as over Soho.
The wet weather on the day of the coronation did not keep large crowds from forming, with one watching the ceremony on a jumbotron in Hyde Park.
With his coronation, King Charles inherits the British sphere of influence, the Commonwealth, which is comprised of many former British colonies. Former British colonies, such as Canada and Australia, had their flags displayed above the final stretch of the procession.
The coronation procession ended at Buckingham Palace. In many ways, the ceremony reminded me of a presidential inauguration in the United States, though with religious elements and comparatively miniscule political power. Overall, having the ability to be in London at this time was really incredible and I cannot wait to see what awaits me in the next countries our group travels to!
