Buckingham Palace releases new portraits of King Charles, Camilla ahead of coronation
FOX NewsMay 06, 2023
The Facts
Some South Africans have called for Britain to repatriate the Star of Africa — the world's largest diamond — which is currently set in the royal scepter and will be used in the coronation of King Charles III on Saturday.
The 530-carat stone was discovered in South Africa in 1905 and was gifted to the British monarchy two years later while the nation was still under colonial rule. However, some activists are now calling for the return of the Star amid a broader push for reparation and repatriation.
The Spin
Establishment-critical narrative
The presence of this symbol of oppression at the coronation of King Charles III is a reminder of Britain's bloody history and the way in which the UK monarchy has profiteered from the exploitation of other nations. Not only should items like these — which were transported during colonial rule — be returned, nations in the commonwealth should hold referendums on their membership to sever ties with the imperial power and establish their own constitutions.
Pro-establishment narrative
While there are some who feel strongly about the historic relationship between Britain and commonwealth nations, there are many who are indifferent to or even support membership in the Commonwealth. Historic oppression and bloodshed should never go unrecognized as a part of Britain's past — especially the role they played in building its economy — but such links between global nations can now act as a positive force, to unite diverse groups in material and cultural exchange under a single figurehead.