King Charles III Becomes Monarch After Mother’s Death

The former Prince of Wales, Charles, has become King following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

At the moment the Queen died, the throne passed immediately and without ceremony to the heir, Charles.

However, there are a number of practical – and traditional – steps which he must go through to be crowned King.

In the first 24 hours or so after his mother’s death, Charles will be officially proclaimed King. This happens at St James’s Palace in London, in front of a ceremonial body known as the Accession Council.

One of his first acts is to decide whether to reign as King Charles III, or take another name.

For instance, his grandfather George VI’s first name was Albert, but he reigned using one of his middle names. Charles could choose from any of his four names – Charles Philip Arthur George.

He is not the only one who faces a change of title.

Although he is heir to the throne, Prince William will not automatically become Prince of Wales. However, he immediately inherits his father’s other title, Duke of Cornwall. His wife Catherine will be known as the Duchess of Cornwall.