The Shortest History of the Crown

Amidst the turbulence and invasions, upheaval and dissent that characterise British history, one thing has remained remarkably stable. The Crown.

Of all the world’s countries, forty-two are still monarchies, but the British monarchy remains the most famous, perhaps even in those countries with kings and queens of their own. As a legacy of Empire, the British monarch is head of state to fourteen countries beyond the United Kingdom, from Australia, New Zealand and Canada to a string of island states across the Caribbean and the Pacific.

In this sprightly commentary on the Crown’s remarkable 1,800-year-long story and enduring power, former royal correspondent, Stephen Bates provides a dazzling insight into royal custom and ritual, whilst depicting the individuals behind the myth with compassion and wit. Delving equally into personality and policy, this book reveals the historical power struggles and concessions that have shaped the monarchy today.

As Britain mourns the end of the seventy-year reign of Elizabeth II, questions about the Crown, its character and survival will inevitably recur. What might the future hold for the world’s best-known monarchy?

The Shortest History of the Crown is the forthcoming addition to the popular Shortest History series, a series designed to be read in a single sitting. For those who already know a lot about the longest continuing monarchy in Europe, and those who are itching to know more—delve into 1800 years of history and tradition in less than 300 pages.

‘A brilliant new book … puts it all into perspective’
—Phil Dampier, Royal Correspondent and author of Royally Suited: Harry and Meghan In Their Own Words and Diana: I’m Going To Be Me: The People’s Princess In Her Own Words

Out 2 May 2023 from Black Inc.

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