Empire 6. Queen Elizabeth II & Empire
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Sep 13, 2022 In this conversation, David Olusoga, a renowned British historian known for his insights into the British Empire, shines a light on Queen Elizabeth II's complex legacy. He discusses the varied perceptions of the monarchy, particularly in former colonies like India and Kenya. The dialogue navigates the reluctance of Britain to confront its colonial past and critiques the royal family's evolving awareness of these issues. Olusoga highlights generational shifts in attitudes towards the monarchy and the Commonwealth's relevance in today's world.
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Ubiquitous Queen
- In Britain, the Queen's image was ubiquitous, appearing on currency and stamps throughout most people's lives.
- This constant presence made her passing feel like a significant shift, akin to the sky changing color.
Divergent Views
- Reactions to the Queen's death vary drastically between Britain and former colonies.
- While many Brits viewed her as a grandmotherly figure, some in former colonies recall the empire's violence and oppression.
Symbolic Changes
- India renamed Rajpath (King's Way) to Kartavya Path (Duty Path) after the Queen's death.
- A statue of George V was replaced with one of Subhas Chandra Bose, an anti-British figure.