Monarchy of Grenada facts for kids
Quick facts for kids King of Grenada |
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Coat of Arms of Grenada
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| Incumbent | |
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| Charles III since 8 September 2022 |
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| Details | |
| Style | His Majesty |
| Heir apparent | William, Prince of Wales |
| First monarch | Elizabeth II |
| Formation | 7 February 1974 |
The monarchy of Grenada is a way of governing where a king or queen is the official head of state. This role is passed down through their family. Since September 8, 2022, King Charles III has been Grenada's monarch and head of state. He represents the "Crown" of Grenada. Even though he is also the monarch for 14 other countries in the Commonwealth of Nations, each country's monarchy is separate. So, he is officially known as the King of Grenada. He and other members of the royal family do public and private duties for Grenada, both at home and abroad. However, only the King has a real role in Grenada's laws.
The King holds all the main powers of Grenada's government. For new laws to be made by the Parliament of Grenada, the King's approval, called royal assent, is needed. Most of these powers are used by elected members of parliament, government ministers, and judges. Other powers, like being able to remove a prime minister, are very important but are only used in special situations. They act as a safety measure for the monarchy's role.
The Crown mainly helps keep the government stable and fair. This was especially clear during the time of the People's Revolutionary Government from 1979 to 1983. While the King can do some things himself, most of his duties are carried out by his representative in Grenada, the Governor-General.
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Grenada's Royal History
Christopher Columbus first saw Grenada in 1498. When Europeans arrived, Island Caribs lived there. French settlers killed most of the Caribs and started large farms called plantations. They brought African slaves to work on these farms. Grenada was French until 1762, when the British took it over. It officially became British in 1763. The French took it back in 1779 but it was returned to Britain in 1783. Slavery was finally ended in 1833.
From 1885 to 1958, Grenada was the main island for the British Windward Islands government. Then, Grenada joined the West Indies Federation. This group ended in 1962. After that, Grenada tried to join with other islands in the Eastern Caribbean. In March 1967, the United Kingdom gave Grenada "associate statehood." This meant Grenada had full control over its own affairs.
Becoming an Independent Nation
A meeting about Grenada's future was held in London in 1973. Grenada became an independent country on February 7, 1974. It became a country with its own laws and a constitutional monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II became the head of state of Grenada. Prince Richard of Gloucester was supposed to represent the Queen at the independence parties. But his visit was canceled because the change to independence was difficult. There was violence, strikes, and arguments about Eric Gairy, who became prime minister. People continued to oppose Gairy's rule. In 1979, a group called the New Jewel Movement (NJM) took over without fighting. They started the People's Revolutionary Government in Grenada. Their leader, Maurice Bishop, became prime minister.
Revolutionary Government (1979–1983)
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The New Jewel Movement, led by Maurice Bishop, took power on March 13, 1979. They created the People's Revolutionary Government (PRG). On March 25, Bishop announced "People's Laws." These laws stopped the 1974 constitution from being used. However, they kept the Queen as Grenada's head of state. One of these laws said:
The Head of State shall remain Her Majesty the Queen and her representative in this country shall continue to be the Governor-General who shall perform such functions as the People's Revolutionary Government may from time to time advise.
The People's Revolutionary Government did this to make their rule seem legal. The Governor-General, Paul Scoon, stayed in his job as the Queen's representative. But he became a figurehead, meaning he had no real power. The PRG took over all government powers. From 1979 to 1983, Scoon had a "fairly relaxed" relationship with the PRG. This was the first time a "communist monarchy" existed in the Commonwealth.
In October 1983, there was a power struggle within Bishop's government. The People's Revolutionary Government was overthrown in a violent takeover. Prime Minister Bishop and other officials were killed. A military group of 16 members, led by Hudson Austin, took power. They put Scoon under house arrest. Scoon secretly asked the United States and other Caribbean countries for help. He wanted them to step in and bring peace back to the island. The countries that invaded said Scoon had the right to ask for help. They said he was using the special powers given to the Crown. But later, experts said there was not a clear legal reason for Scoon to ask for foreign help. They also questioned his taking over government powers.
On October 25, 1983, the United States invasion of Grenada happened. The military group was removed. Scoon and his family were taken from his home. The US and Caribbean governments quickly said Scoon was the Queen's only true representative in Grenada. This meant he was the only legal authority on the island. It was later confirmed that Scoon had talked to the Queen before the invasion. However, the Queen's office said she did not know about any request for military action. The Queen was "extremely upset" by the invasion of one of her countries. The only paper signed by the Governor-General asking for military help was dated after the invasion. This made people wonder if the United States used Scoon as an excuse to invade Grenada. In his book from 2003, Scoon said he had asked other Caribbean governments for military help.
After the invasion, the Governor-General took over government powers. There was no parliament or elected government at the time. He brought back the 1974 constitution. A group of nine advisors, led by Nicholas Brathwaite, was appointed in November 1983. They served until the elections in 1984. Herbert Blaize of the New National Party won these elections. This was one of the few times in Commonwealth history that the Crown was the main active power in a country.
The Grenadian Crown: What It Means
Grenada is one of fifteen independent countries called Commonwealth realms. These countries share the same monarch. But the monarch's role in Grenada is completely separate from his role as monarch of any other country. Even though they share the same person as their monarch, each Commonwealth realm, including Grenada, is independent. The Grenadian monarch is represented in the country by a viceroy, who is the Governor-General of Grenada.
Since Grenada became independent in 1974, the Crown has been both shared and separate. The monarch's role as King of Grenada is different from his role as monarch of any other country, including the United Kingdom. This means the monarchy is no longer just a British thing. In Grenada, it has become a Grenadian, or "local," institution.
This difference is shown in many ways. For example, the King has a special Grenadian title. When he acts publicly for Grenada, he uses Grenadian symbols. These include the country's national flag and special royal symbols. Only Grenadian government ministers can advise the King on matters about Grenada.
In Grenada, the government is officially called "His Majesty in right of Grenada" or "the Crown in right of its Government in Grenada."
The King's Official Title
In Grenada, the King's full official title is: Charles the Third, by the Grace of God, King of Grenada and of His other Realms and Territories, Head of the Commonwealth.
This title shows that Grenada is an independent monarchy. It highlights the King's role specifically as Grenada's monarch. It also shows that the Crown is shared among the realms. Usually, the King is simply called "King of Grenada." He is addressed this way when he is in Grenada or doing duties for Grenada abroad.
Swearing Loyalty to the King
The King represents the state. So, people swear loyalty to him. This is done because the King promises to govern his people "according to their respective laws and customs" when he is crowned.
The oath of loyalty in Grenada is:
"I, (name), do swear [or solemnly affirm] that I will faithfully bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His Heirs and Successors, according to law. [So help me God.]"
Who Becomes King or Queen?
Like some other countries, Grenada follows the United Kingdom's laws to decide who will be the next monarch.
The line of succession is based on primogeniture, meaning the firstborn child inherits, regardless of gender. This is set by laws like the Succession to the Crown Act 2013. These laws say that only natural, legitimate descendants of Sophia, Electress of Hanover can become monarch. They also state that the monarch cannot be a Roman Catholic and must be part of the Church of England. Even though these laws for Grenada are controlled by the British parliament, neither the UK nor Grenada can change them alone. All the countries that share the monarch must agree. This is like a treaty between these countries.
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When a monarch dies or steps down, the next in line immediately becomes the new monarch. No special ceremony is needed right away. It is common for the Governor-General to announce the new monarch in the capital, St. George's. A period of mourning follows, and flags are flown at half-mast to honor the late monarch. A memorial service is also usually held.
The King's Role in Government
Grenada's constitution sets up a parliamentary system with a constitutional monarchy. This means the King and Governor-General have legal and practical roles, but they are not involved in politics. The Crown is seen as a body where different parts share power. The King is at the center of this system, meaning all state powers belong to the Grenadian monarch. Because of this, the Crown owns all state property. All public lands are held by the Governor-General and are called Crown lands. The government of Grenada is also officially called His Majesty's Government in Grenada.
The Governor-General carries out the duties of the head of state for the King. However, the King may perform some ceremonial duties when he visits Grenada. The constitution says the King can choose or remove the Governor-General freely. But, by tradition, the King does this only on the advice of the prime minister of Grenada.
All government bodies act under the King's authority. The many powers of the Grenadian Crown are known as the Royal prerogative. Parliament does not need to approve the use of these powers. Also, Parliament needs the Crown's permission before discussing any law that affects the King's powers or interests.
The Executive Branch
One of the Crown's main jobs is to appoint a prime minister. The prime minister then leads the Cabinet of Grenada. The Cabinet advises the King or Governor-General on how to use their powers for all government and foreign affairs. The King's and Governor-General's roles are mostly symbolic. They represent the legal authority for all government actions. The Cabinet decides how to use the Royal Prerogative. This includes declaring war, keeping peace, calling and ending parliamentary sessions, and calling elections. It is important to remember that the Royal Prerogative belongs to the Crown, not to the ministers. However, the constitution allows the Governor-General to use these powers alone in special situations. This includes dismissing a prime minister, dissolving parliament, or removing a judge during a constitutional crisis.
There are also a few duties only the King performs, such as appointing the Governor-General.
To keep the government stable, the Governor-General appoints the person most likely to have the support of the House of Representatives as prime minister. The Governor-General also appoints a Cabinet, as directed by the prime minister. The King is kept informed by his representative about resignations and new appointments. He stays updated through regular messages from his Grenadian ministers. People in various government agencies are also appointed by the Crown. The appointment of senators, judges, and legal officers also falls under the Royal Prerogative.
Foreign Affairs
The King's powers also extend to foreign affairs. The Governor-General approves treaties, alliances, and international agreements. Parliament's approval is not needed for this. However, a treaty cannot change Grenada's local laws. A special Act of Parliament is needed for that. The Governor-General, acting for the King, also approves Grenadian High Commissioners and ambassadors. He also welcomes diplomats from other countries. In addition, issuing passports is part of the Royal Prerogative. So, all Grenadian passports are issued in the Governor-General's name, as the King's representative.
The Parliament
The King, along with the Senate and the House of Representatives, makes up the three parts of the Parliament of Grenada. The Crown's authority is shown in the maces, which have a crown at the top. Grenada has two maces: one for the Senate (made in 1967) and one for the House of Representatives (made in the 18th century).
The King does not take part in making laws. But the Governor-General does, by giving royal assent (approval). Also, the constitution says the Governor-General alone appoints senators. The Governor-General must appoint seven senators on the prime minister's advice. Three are appointed on the advice of the opposition leader. And three are appointed on the prime minister's advice after he talks to groups or interests the senators will represent. In 2013 and 2018, Grenada did not have a formal opposition in Parliament. This was because the New National Party won all seats. In these cases, the Governors-General used their own judgment. They appointed members of the defeated National Democratic Congress to the Senate. This was done to provide opposition to the government.
The Governor-General also calls, ends, and dissolves parliament. After parliament is dissolved, election notices are usually issued by the Governor-General. The new parliamentary session starts with the Opening of Parliament. During this, the King or the Governor-General reads the Speech from the Throne.
All laws in Grenada become official only when the Governor-General gives royal assent in the King's name. So, new laws begin with the words: "Be it enacted by the King's Most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Representatives of Grenada, and by the authority of the same, as follows:". The Governor-General usually gives or withholds royal assent using the Public Seal of Grenada.
The Courts and Justice
The King is responsible for providing justice for all his people. He is traditionally seen as the fount of justice. In Grenada, crimes are legally seen as offenses against the King. Lawsuits for serious crimes are brought in the King's name, like The King [or Queen] versus [Name]. This means the King "can do no wrong" and cannot be charged with crimes in his own courts.
Magistrates are appointed by the Governor-General, based on advice from the Judicial and Legal Services Commission. This is stated in section 88 of the Constitution. The Judicial and Legal Services Commission appoints judges of the Supreme Court of Grenada for the King. The Chief Justice of the Court is appointed by the King through a special document called letters patent. The highest court for appeals in Grenada is the Judicial Committee of the King's Privy Council.
The Governor-General, for the Grenadian monarch, can also grant protection from being charged with a crime. He can also use the royal prerogative of mercy to pardon crimes against the Crown. This can happen before, during, or after a trial. The power to grant a pardon and reduce prison sentences is described in section 72 of the Constitution.
The King's Cultural Role
Honours and Awards
In the Commonwealth realms, the monarch is considered the fount of honour. This means the King, who is at the top of Grenada's honours system, gives out awards and honours in Grenada in his name. Most of these are given based on the advice of "His Majesty's Grenada Ministers."
In 2007, Grenada passed the National Honours and Awards Act. This law created two national awards: the Prestige Order of the National Hero and the Order of Grenada. The King is the head of these orders, and the Governor-General is the Chancellor.
The Crown and the Police Force
Grenada's national police force is called the "Royal Grenada Police Force".
The Crown is at the very top of the Royal Grenada Police Force. The Chief of Police is appointed by the Governor-General. The St Edward's Crown appears on the police force's badges and rank symbols. This shows that the monarchy is the source of authority. The prison service in Grenada is also known as His Majesty's Prisons.
Every new police officer must swear loyalty to the monarch of Grenada. Under Grenada's Police Act, the current oath is:
"I, (name), do hereby swear by Almighty God (or do hereby solemnly and sincerely declare and affirm) that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, His Heirs and Successors, and that I will faithfully serve His Majesty the King, His Heirs and Successors during my service in the Royal Grenada Police Force, that I will subject myself to all Acts, Orders and regulations for the time being in operation that relate to the Force and will discharge all the duties of a police officer according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will."
Grenadian Royal Symbols
The main symbol of the Grenadian monarchy is the King himself. So, framed pictures of him are displayed in public buildings and government offices. The King also appears on special Grenadian stamps.
Ceremonial maces are used in both houses of Parliament. They represent the King's royal authority. A crown also appears on awards and police officers' badges. This shows that the monarchy is the source of authority.
God Save the King is the royal anthem of Grenada.
Under Grenada's Citizenship Act, new Grenadian citizens must swear loyalty to the monarch of Grenada and his future heirs.
The King's Christmas message to the Commonwealth is broadcast by the Grenadian government on December 25.
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Flag of the Grenadian governor-general featuring St Edward's Crown
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The insignia of the Order of the Nation featuring St Edward's Crown
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The emblem of the Royal Grenada Police Force featuring St Edward's Crown
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A Grenadian meter stamp featuring the Crown
Royal Visits to Grenada
Princess Margaret visited Grenada in 1955.
Queen Elizabeth II first visited Grenada during her Caribbean tour in 1966. A boat race was happening in the harbor. In St George's, local children sang a Welcome Song. The Queen later planted a tree and saw a farm exhibition and a show. In 1985, the Queen opened Parliament in St George's. She also attended an awards ceremony and a cultural show.
The Earl of Wessex visited in October 2003. He is a trustee for The Duke of Edinburgh's Award. He gave out awards at the Rex Grenadian hotel. The Earl of Wessex returned in November 2004 to see areas damaged by Hurricane Ivan.
The Duke of York visited Grenada in February 2004. He toured the Dorothy Hopkins Home for the Handicapped and the Grenada Boys Secondary School.
The Princess Royal visited in June 2011. She gave Gold Awards to young people who achieved goals in The Duke of Edinburgh's Award. She also attended discussions for the Caribbean-Canada Emerging Leaders' Dialogue.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex visited in 2012 to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. They went to a youth rally, met students at an art show, and unveiled a plaque at the Botanical Gardens.
The Princess Royal visited Grenada again in 2015. She attended a discussion at St. George's University. Afterwards, the Princess attended The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Grenada Awards Ceremony.
Prince Harry visited Grenada in 2016, the year of the Queen's 90th birthday. After arriving, he went to Queens Park Grounds for a community sports event. Later, he visited Grand Anse Beach to learn about how climate change affects the island. Prince Harry saw how "coral gardeners" were rebuilding the coral reef. He also learned about Grenada's efforts to restore its mangroves, which were destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004. During his visit, Prince Harry also started scholarships for young people from the Caribbean who want to work in hospitality.
Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall visited Grenada in 2019 during their Caribbean tour. They were welcomed at the Grenada Houses of Parliament. They also went to a reception to see various exhibitions, including flowers from the Chelsea Flower Show. At the House of Chocolate, they toured the center, tasted chocolate bars and cocoa tea, and met farmers and chocolatiers. Later, they visited the Carenage Exhibition and met the owners of Renegade Rum. The Prince of Wales also attended a meeting about the "Blue Economy" at Spice Island Beach Resort. He visited Mount Cinnamon Dive Site to see an exhibition about the Blue Economy on the beach.
The Earl and Countess of Wessex were supposed to visit Grenada in 2022 to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee. But their trip was postponed after talks with Grenada's government. It was reported that Grenada's National Reparations Committee planned to meet the couple to discuss Britain and the royal family's past links to slavery.
List of Grenadian Monarchs
| Portrait | Regnal name (Birth–Death) |
Reign over Grenada | Full name | Consort | House | |
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| Start | End | |||||
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Elizabeth II (1926–2022) |
7 February 1974 | 8 September 2022 | Elizabeth Alexandra Mary | Philip Mountbatten | Windsor |
| Governors-general: Sir Leo de Gale, Sir Paul Scoon, Sir Reginald Palmer, Sir Daniel Williams, Sir Carlyle Glean, Dame Cécile La Grenade Prime ministers: Sir Eric Gairy, Maurice Bishop, Bernard Coard, General Hudson Austin, Nicholas Brathwaite, Herbert Blaize, Ben Jones, George Brizan, Keith Mitchell, Tillman Thomas, Dickon Mitchell |
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Charles III (b. 1948) |
8 September 2022 | present | Charles Philip Arthur George | Camilla Shand | Windsor |
| Governors-general: Dame Cécile La Grenade Prime ministers: Dickon Mitchell |
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See also
- Lists of office-holders
- List of prime ministers of Elizabeth II
- List of prime ministers of Charles III
- List of Commonwealth visits made by Elizabeth II
- Monarchies in the Americas
- List of monarchies
