As first published by History Matters in June 2020. It has been an oft-quoted refrain since the coronavirus pandemic arrived in Europe: along with much of the rest of the world, Britain and the continent face a looming recession on a scale that hasn’t been witnessed since the 1930s. The first half of this inauspicious decadeContinue reading “The monarchy and the next Great Depression”
Tag Archives: monarchy
The monarchy, mythmaking and VE Day
As first published by On History in May 2020. On the 75th anniversary of VE Day, Ed Owens — author of The Family Firm. Monarchy, Mass Media and the British Public, 1932-53 — reflects on the royal family’s careful cultivation of a media image in wartime, culminating with the events of 8 May 1945. Given the circumstances,Continue reading “The monarchy, mythmaking and VE Day”
The family firm falters part 3
As first published by Talking Humanities in April 2020. The coronavirus presents the British monarchy with a set of unique short-term and long-term challenges. In this third and final article, written in connection with the release of The Family Firm, Dr Ed Owens reflects on the royal response to the Covid-19 crisis and the consequences ofContinue reading “The family firm falters part 3”
The family firm falters part 1
As first published by Talking Humanities in February 2020. History is not repeating itself. Harry and Meghan are not Edward and Wallis. Prince Andrew’s transgressions are unlike those committed by other members of the royal family in the recent past. The slimmed down monarchy of 2020 looks different to the monarchy of 2010, let aloneContinue reading “The family firm falters part 1”
The family firm fights back
As first published by Talking Humanities in October 2019. Dr Edward Owens, author of ‘The Family Firm: Monarchy, Mass Media and British Public, 1932-53’, reflects on the current relationship between the British royal family and the press. Prince Harry has done something extraordinary. He has loudly and emotionally condemned some of Britain’s leading newspapers forContinue reading “The family firm fights back”
Buckingham Palace’s balcony: a focal point for national celebration
As first published by History Extra in June 2016. From George V’s appearance on the eve of the First World War to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s post-wedding kiss in 2011, the Buckingham Palace balcony has been the setting of many iconic moments in history. Here, ahead of Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday celebrations, EdContinue reading “Buckingham Palace’s balcony: a focal point for national celebration”
Dr Ed Owens 