Monarchy of Canada facts for kids
Quick facts for kids King of Canada |
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| Roi du Canada | |
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Federal
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Arms of the King of Canada
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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 |
Canada has a special type of government called a constitutional monarchy. This means the King or Queen is Canada's head of state and a very important part of its government. The current monarch is King Charles III, who became King on September 8, 2022.
Even though King Charles III is also the monarch of 14 other countries, Canada's monarchy is separate and unique. He is officially called the King of Canada. When he and other members of the royal family visit Canada or represent Canada abroad, they do so as representatives of Canada. The King lives in the United Kingdom, but his main duties in Canada are carried out by his representative, the governor general of Canada. In each of Canada's provinces, the King is represented by a lieutenant governor.
The King's approval is needed for many government actions, like new laws. This power comes from the Canadian people through their democratic system. The King's role is to protect the rights, freedoms, and democratic system of Canadians. He acts as a guardian, making sure the government follows the rules and doesn't misuse its power. Canada's monarchy is one of the oldest in the world, with roots going back to the 15th century. It has grown from the French and British empires' claims on North American land.
Canada has also had a long tradition of hereditary chiefs among some First Nations. This system is similar to a monarchy and exists alongside the Canadian Crown. Both the Crown and First Nations work together to uphold important treaty rights and agreements.
Contents
- The Monarchy Around the World and in Canada
- The Monarchy in Federal and Provincial Governments
- The King's Role in Government
- The Monarchy's Cultural Role
- The Royal Family and House
- Royal Residences and Staff
- History of the Monarchy in Canada
- How Canadians See the Monarchy
- Debate About the Monarchy
- Images for kids
- See also
The Monarchy Around the World and in Canada
The King is the monarch of 14 other countries, called Commonwealth realms, within the larger Commonwealth of Nations. Since he lives in the United Kingdom, the governor general of Canada and the lieutenant governors in each province represent him in Canada. They handle most of the King's duties here, even when he visits. The King can also perform Canadian duties when he is abroad.
Over time, the role of the governor general changed. They used to represent both the King and the British government. But after the First World War, Canada became more independent. This led to the Statute of Westminster in 1931, which made Canada's monarchy distinct from the United Kingdom's. Now, only Canadian ministers advise the King on Canadian matters. This means the monarchy in Canada is a truly Canadian institution.
This separation is shown in many ways. The King has a special Canadian title. When he or other royal family members act for Canada, they use Canadian symbols like the national flag, special royal symbols, and Canadian Forces uniforms. Canadian officials also take over their security and travel arrangements once they are in Canada or at a Canadian event overseas.
The King only uses Canadian money to support his duties when he is in Canada or acting as King of Canada abroad. Canadians do not pay him or any other royal family member for their personal income or for their homes outside Canada.
The monarchy in Canada has five main parts:
- Constitutional: This involves the King's powers, like calling and ending Parliament sessions, and approving laws.
- National: This includes traditions like the Speech from the Throne, the Royal Christmas Message, giving out honours, and attending Remembrance Day ceremonies.
- International: The King is head of state in other Commonwealth realms and head of the Commonwealth.
- Religious: The King's title includes "by the grace of God," and he must be Anglican, encouraging tolerance among different faiths.
- Welfare and service: Royal family members support charities and organizations, showing their commitment to public service.
Who Becomes King or Queen?
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The person who will become King or Queen is called the heir apparent. Currently, this is William, Prince of Wales. He is followed by his eldest child, Prince George.
When a Monarch Dies
When a monarch dies, their heir immediately becomes the new King or Queen. There is no waiting period or special ceremony needed. This is why people say, "The King is dead. Long live the King!"
The governor general announces the new monarch in a public ceremony at Rideau Hall. If Parliament is meeting, the Prime Minister will also announce the news and express sympathy to the new King.
A period of mourning follows the death of a monarch. Special ceremonies are held across Canada, as royal funerals usually take place in the United Kingdom. The day of the funeral is often a federal holiday.
The new monarch is crowned in the United Kingdom in an old tradition. However, this crowning is not needed for them to start reigning. In Canada, government officials keep their jobs when a new monarch takes the throne. They do not need to take their Oath of Allegiance again. This is because, in law, the Crown "never dies."
Rules for Succession
The rules for who becomes the next monarch are set by old laws like the Bill of Rights, 1689 and the Act of Settlement, 1701. Any changes to these rules need all 15 Commonwealth realms to agree.
In 2011, Canada and other Commonwealth realms agreed to change the rules. Now, the oldest child, whether male or female, will inherit the throne. Also, marrying a Roman Catholic no longer prevents someone from becoming monarch. Canada passed its own law, the Succession to the Throne Act, 2013, to agree to these changes.
For example, in 1936, King Edward VIII gave up the throne. Canada had to agree to this change through its own laws. This showed that the laws of succession were part of Canadian law.
Some people have questioned if the rule preventing Catholics from becoming monarch is fair. However, Canadian courts have said this rule is part of Canada's constitution. Changing it would require a political agreement, not a court decision.
What if the Monarch is Too Young or Sick?
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Canada does not have its own laws for a regency. A regent is someone who rules if the monarch is too young or too sick. However, the Letters Patent, 1947, allow the governor general to use almost all of the King's powers in Canada. This means the governor general would continue to act as the King's representative, even if the King were a child or unable to rule.
Royal Visits to Other Countries
The Canadian monarch has made several official visits to other countries as the King or Queen of Canada. Here are some examples:
| Visit to | Date | Monarch of Canada | Received by | Type |
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 France |
26 July 1936 | King Edward VIII | President Albert Lebrun | Official |
 United States |
7–11 June 1939 | King George VI | President Franklin D. Roosevelt | State |
| United States |
17 October 1957 | Queen Elizabeth II | President Dwight D. Eisenhower | State |
| United States |
26 June 1959 | Official | ||
| United States |
6 July 1959 | Governor William Stratton | State | |
| France |
6 June 1984 | President François Mitterrand | Official | |
| France |
1994 | Official | ||
| France |
6 June 2004 | President Jacques Chirac | Official | |
| France |
9 April 2007 | Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin | Official | |
 United States |
6 July 2010 | Governor David Paterson | Official |
The Monarchy in Federal and Provincial Governments
Canada's monarchy was created when the country became a federation in 1867. The King is the foundation of Canada's government. Even though Canada is a federation with different levels of government (federal and provincial), the monarchy is united across all of them. The King links all these governments together.
The King and his representatives stay out of politics. They hold power but usually don't use it directly. This helps them remain neutral, especially if there's a big problem in the government. They act as a symbol of unity and protect democratic rights.
However, the King and senior royal family members have some freedoms limited compared to other Canadians. For example, their freedom of religion, expression, and travel might be restricted.
The governor general is chosen by the King based on the advice of the Prime Minister. Lieutenant governors are chosen by the governor general, also on the Prime Minister's advice. Commissioners in Canada's territories are chosen by the federal government.
Who is in Charge of the Government?
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The King is seen as the symbol of the Canadian state. This means he represents all Canadians, no matter their political views. He and his representatives must stay neutral in politics.
The King has two roles: his natural body (which can get sick and die) and his political body (which never dies). The Crown and the King are connected, but the King is always "on duty," even in private. Terms like "the state" or "the Crown" are all ways to refer to the King's legal role in Canada.
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The King is at the top of Canada's official order of importance. He is also the focus of oaths of allegiance, which many government employees and new citizens must take. This oath is a promise of loyalty to the King. In return, the King promises to govern Canadians according to their laws and customs.
Who is the Head of State?
Official government sources, judges, and experts agree that the King is Canada's head of state. The governor general and lieutenant governors are his representatives. Some people have debated this, with some saying the governor general acts as the head of state. However, the King is the ultimate head of state.
Since 1927, governors general have been treated like heads of state during visits to other countries. However, official documents do not say the governor general is the head of state. They only say the governor general acts "on the King's behalf."
Surveys have shown that many Canadians are unsure who their head of state is. Some think it's the Prime Minister, others the governor general, and fewer know it's the King.
Symbols of the Monarchy
The main symbol of the monarchy is the King himself. His image is used to show Canadian authority. For example, his picture appears on money and in government buildings. The King is also mentioned in songs and toasts.
A royal cypher (the King's special symbol) or a crown is also used on buildings, official seals, and coats of arms. These symbols show that the monarchy is the source of authority.
The Arms of His Majesty the King in Right of Canada is Canada's official coat of arms. It is based on the United Kingdom's royal coat of arms but includes Canadian elements.
The royal standard is the King's official flag. It shows the royal arms and is flown when the King is present. This flag is never flown at half-mast because there is always a King or Queen.
The King's Role in Government
Canada's constitution is based on the Westminster parliamentary model. This means the King's role is legal and practical, but not political. The King has all the powers of the state, known as the royal prerogative.
However, the King does not rule alone. His power is shared by different government branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial. These branches act under the King's authority. The monarchy is seen as the foundation of Canada's unity and a protector of constitutional freedoms.
The Great Seal of Canada shows the King's power flowing to the government. It is used on important documents like laws and appointments for government officials.
The King is also the head of the Canadian Armed Forces. The governor general carries out the duties of this role and is called the Commander-in-Chief in and over Canada.
The Executive (King-in-Council)
The Canadian government is formally called His Majesty's Government. It means the King acts on the advice of his Privy Council. The King's main job is to make sure a democratically elected government is always in place. This means appointing a prime minister to lead the Cabinet. The King is kept informed by his ministers and meets with them when possible.
Usually, the King follows the advice of his ministers. This means the King "reigns" but does not "rule." The Cabinet rules "in trust" for the King. However, the King or his representative can use special powers in rare cases, like a constitutional crisis. This ensures the government follows the constitution.
The King's powers also include foreign affairs, like signing treaties and declaring war. He also gives out honours.
Parliament (King-in-Parliament)
All laws in Canada belong to the King. The King is one of the three parts of the Parliament of Canada. However, the King and governor general do not take part in making laws. They only give royal assent, which is needed for a bill to become law.
The governor general is also responsible for calling Parliament to meet and for ending or dissolving Parliament. After Parliament is dissolved, the governor general usually calls for a new election. The new parliamentary session starts with the Speech from the Throne, read by the King, governor general, or another representative.
Members of Parliament must take the Oath of Allegiance before they can take their seat. The official opposition is called His Majesty's Loyal Opposition. This shows that even though they oppose the government, they are loyal to the King.
The King cannot create new taxes without Parliament's approval. Also, Parliament needs the King's permission to discuss any bill that affects his powers or interests.
Courts (King-on-the-Bench)
The King is responsible for justice for all his subjects. He is seen as the fount of justice. His role in the Canadian courts is called the King on the Bench. The Arms of His Majesty in Right of Canada and a portrait of the King are usually displayed in Canadian courtrooms.
The King does not personally rule in court cases. This is done by judges and other court officials in the King's name. In the past, the King could not be sued in his own courts. However, laws have changed this, and the government (the King-in-Council) can now be sued like any person.
The King also has the power to grant mercy and pardons for crimes. This power is used on the advice of ministers.
The Crown and Indigenous Peoples
Canada's constitution includes various treaties between the Crown and Canada's First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. These Indigenous peoples often see their relationship as being with the continuous Crown of Canada, not just with changing governments. This connection is meant to last "as long as the sun shines, grass grows, and rivers flow."
This relationship goes back to the first meetings between Indigenous peoples and European settlers. The main guide for relations today is King George III's Royal Proclamation of 1763. This document confirmed Indigenous land rights and recognized Indigenous groups as independent political units. The King acts as an intermediary in this "nation-to-nation" relationship.
The link between the Crown and Indigenous peoples is often shown through ceremonies. Indigenous leaders have met with royal family members and viceroys for centuries to discuss treaty matters.
Hereditary Chiefs
Hereditary chiefs are leaders in First Nations whose positions are passed down through families. These leadership roles existed long before Canada was colonized. Early European explorers sometimes called these Indigenous leaders "kings."
Today, hereditary chiefs do not have the same power as the King of Canada. However, they have authority over traditional lands outside of band-controlled reservation land. They are important knowledge-keepers for their First Nations' customs and legal systems. The Crown maintains formal relations with hereditary chiefs on matters like treaty rights.
The Monarchy's Cultural Role
Royal Visits and Duties
Members of the royal family have visited Canada since the late 1700s. They come for military events, to serve as governor general, or for official royal tours. These tours help celebrate Canada's history and culture. Since 1957, there has been at least one royal tour every year until 2018.
Modern royal tours often involve "walkabouts," where royals meet and talk directly with people. This tradition started in 1939 with Queen Elizabeth in Ottawa. Important events like anniversaries or cultural celebrations often include the monarch. Other royal family members attend smaller events.
Official duties involve the King representing Canada at home or abroad. Other royal family members may also participate in government ceremonies. These duties are decided by the Canadian Cabinet.
Unofficial duties are performed by royal family members for Canadian organizations they support. This includes attending charity events or visiting Canadian Forces as their colonel-in-chief. The organizations usually pay for these visits.
The King and other royal family members also perform duties in the other 14 Commonwealth realms.
Symbols, Awards, and Associations
The King is the source of all honours in Canada. Awards like the Order of Canada have a crown, the King's symbol, or his portrait on them. Canada's heraldic authority was created by Queen Elizabeth II. It grants new coats of arms, flags, and badges in Canada. Using a royal crown in these symbols shows royal support and needs the King's approval.
Royal family members also serve as ceremonial heads of various parts of the Canadian Armed Forces. This shows the Crown's connection to the military. The King is also the Commissioner-in-Chief of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Many Canadian organizations are linked to the monarchy. Some were founded by a royal charter, others can use the word royal in their name, or a royal family member is their patron. Charities like the Victorian Order of Nurses were created as gifts to or in honour of monarchs. All Canadian coins have the image of the reigning monarch.
In the 1970s, some symbols of the monarchy were removed from public view. However, other symbols like the royal coat of arms remained, and new ones were created. Canada has worked to make its royal symbols uniquely Canadian.
Importance to Canadian Identity
The monarchy is a key part of Canada's history and identity. It helps connect Canadians to their past and shared values. This connection also helps make Canada different from the United States.
Some people have argued that the Canadian Crown is foreign and doesn't fit with Canada's diverse society. However, supporters say the monarchy is Canadian by choice and helps keep Canada unique. It is seen as a symbol of peace and justice for immigrants.
The monarchy is so common in Canada that people sometimes don't notice it. It's like "tasteful wallpaper"—always there but often overlooked.
The Royal Family and House
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The Canadian royal family includes people closely related to the King of Canada. They belong to the House of Windsor. There is no official list of who is in the royal family, but the Canadian government lists "working members."
In Canada, only the monarch has a title set by Canadian law. Other family members use the titles they have in the UK, with French translations.
The Canadian monarch is also the British monarch. While media often calls them the "British royal family," the Canadian government prefers to call them members of the Canadian royal family. Some members of the royal family are Canadian citizens. The King himself is considered Canadian.
The idea of a Canadian royal family became clearer after 1931, when Canada gained more independence. King Edward VIII was the first monarch to perform duties solely on the advice of Canadian ministers in 1936. Over time, other royal family members also began to perform duties for Canada.
In 2002, Queen Elizabeth II first publicly used the term "Canadian royal family." She said, "I am proud to be the first member of the Canadian royal family to be greeted in Canada's newest territory." Other royals have used the term since then.
Canada has also created unique Canadian symbols for royal family members, like special flags. This shows that Canada has taken "ownership" of its royal family.
Royal Residences and Staff
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Buildings used by the King and his representatives are called Government House. The King's and governor general's official homes are Rideau Hall in Ottawa and the Citadelle in Quebec City.
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The King has Canadian staff to help him with his duties. This includes a Canadian secretary, police officers, and ladies-in-waiting for the Queen. The Royal Canadian Air Force VIP aircraft provides planes for royal travel.
There are three special military regiments linked to the royal household: the Governor General's Foot Guards, the Governor General's Horse Guards, and the Canadian Grenadier Guards. Canada also has three chapels royal in Ontario.
Security for the Royal Family
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is in charge of protecting the King, the governor general, and other royal family members. They decide on security based on how important the person is and the type of visit. The governor general has round-the-clock security.
History of the Monarchy in Canada
From Colonies to Independence
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The Canadian monarchy's history goes back to the kings of England and Scotland, and to the claims made by King Henry VII in 1497 and King Francis I in 1534. Canada has been under a monarchy since the early 1500s.
After wars and treaties, French colonies in Canada became part of the British Crown. In 1867, Queen Victoria united the British North American colonies to form Canada as its own kingdom. After the First World War, Canada wanted more independence. This led to the Statute of Westminster in 1931, which created the unique Canadian monarchy.
The Canadian Crown Today
King George VI was the first reigning monarch of Canada to tour the country in 1939. Weeks later, he declared war on Nazi Germany on the advice of his Canadian Prime Minister.
Elizabeth II first visited Canada in 1951 as a princess. She later marked many important moments in Canada's history. She opened Parliament in 1957 and 1977, opened the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959, and celebrated Canada's 100th birthday. In 1982, she proclaimed Canada's full independence with the patriation of the constitution. This act made the monarchy a deeply rooted part of Canada's government.
In the 1960s and 1970s, some people questioned the monarchy's role in Canada. Some symbols were removed from public view. However, the monarchy remained an essential part of the system.
The Queen supported Canadian unity, especially during the referendum on Quebec independence in 1995. She was very interested in the results of the vote.
Royal family members continued to attend important national events. They opened Commonwealth Games, hospitals, and community centers. They also visited Canadian Armed Forces regiments.
The 21st Century Monarchy
In 2002, celebrations for Queen Elizabeth II's Golden Jubilee were popular. In 2012, Canada celebrated her Diamond Jubilee, the first since Queen Victoria's in 1897. In 2015, she became the longest-reigning monarch in Canada's modern history.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Queen expressed her support for Canadians. In 2022, Canada celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, the first in Canadian history.
The issue of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples became very important in 2021. Some statues of Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth II were damaged. On the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Queen Elizabeth made a public statement. She said she reflected on the painful history Indigenous peoples faced in residential schools. In the same year, the Queen appointed Mary Simon as the first Indigenous governor general.
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Queen Elizabeth II died on September 8, 2022. Her eldest son, Charles III, became King. She had reigned for almost half of Canada's history since Confederation.
Two days later, the new King was officially announced in a ceremony at Rideau Hall. King Charles III met with Governor General Mary Simon and Indigenous leaders before his coronation in May 2023.
How Canadians See the Monarchy
Many people have said that Canadians don't fully understand the monarchy. Some believe that opponents of the monarchy spread wrong information. This lack of understanding is part of a wider lack of knowledge about Canadian government.
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Some experts say that the role of the Crown disappeared from school lessons in the 1960s. This means many Canadians are not taught about it.
The monarchy is so common in Canada that people might not notice it. It's everywhere, from place names to coins, but it's often "invisible."
Some people mistakenly think the Canadian monarchy is the same as the British monarchy. They see it as foreign. This idea is sometimes used by politicians in Quebec who want Quebec to separate from Canada. However, the Canadian Crown is a distinct Canadian institution.
Debate About the Monarchy
There hasn't been much national debate about the monarchy in Canada. The King's position is strongly protected by the Constitution Act, 1982. Any big change to the monarchy needs all 10 provinces, the Senate, and the House of Commons to agree. Treaties with Indigenous peoples also help protect the monarchy.
There are two main groups who discuss the monarchy in Canada: the Monarchist League of Canada (MLC) and Citizens for a Canadian Republic. Other groups also support the monarchy.
Of Canada's main political parties, neither the Liberal Party nor the Conservative Party officially support getting rid of the monarchy. The New Democratic Party has no official position. Only some politicians have suggested ending the monarchy.
Opinion polls on the monarchy have been done since the 1990s. These polls sometimes show confusion, partly because questions might describe the monarchy as "British" instead of Canadian. Both supporters and opponents agree that people's lack of understanding affects their opinions.
Some people have suggested having a uniquely Canadian monarch, perhaps from the House of Windsor or even from a First Nations royal family. However, there is no widespread support for such a big change.
Images for kids
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nickel with the effigy of Queen Elizabeth II on the obverse
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Patricia Lake, named for Princess Patricia of Connaught
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Queen station beneath Toronto's Queen Street, so named for Queen Victoria
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Badge of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
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Ontario vehicle licence plate showing the silhouette of a crown
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burgee of the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club
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The throne of Canada (left) and throne for the royal consort (right)—both commissioned in 1878—behind the speaker's chair in the Senate
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The sovereign's throne (left) and royal consort's throne (right) behind the speaker's chair—all made in 2017—in the temporary Senate chamber
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Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, depicted on various Canadian stamps through the 1960s and 1970s
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Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, depicted on various Canadian stamps through the 1960s and 1970s
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Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, depicted on various Canadian stamps through the 1960s and 1970s
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Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, depicted on various Canadian stamps through the 1960s and 1970s
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Sovereign's Medal for Volunteers, with the effigy of Elizabeth II wearing a snowflake diadem
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See also
In Spanish: Monarquía en Canadá para niños
- List of monarchies
- Monarchies in the Americas
- Royal and viceroyal transport in Canada
- Royal eponyms in Canada
- List of sovereign states headed by Elizabeth II
