Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning and oldest living monarch. But, could Her Majesty become an Empress of Britain?
Aside from being the longest-reigning and oldest living monarch, Queen Elizabeth is also the longest-serving female head of state in the world. However, Her Majesty does not currently hold a particular title, which is the Empress of Britain.
An Emperor or an Empress is someone regarded as the "highest-ranking Monarchical title," while a King or a Queen is someone governs over a kingdom. The population and territory of an empire are calculated on a larger scale compared to a kingdom.
The title of Emperor or Empress dated back to the Roman Empire, and it was associated with other words like globalization, colonialism, and imperialism. It reportedly used to describe displeasure to overpowering situations. The only empire that's reportedly left in the world is in Japan, and Emperor Akihito rules it.
In British royal history, Queen Victoria has been the only monarch who has acquired the title of Empress. She was reportedly proclaimed the Empress of India in May 1876, which is after discussions with the prime minister of the day, Benjamin Disraeli.
Reports say Queen Victoria used the title from 1876 to 1947 when the British rule ended in India. During those times, British monarchs were given titles of Queen-Empress or King-Emperor. But, now, could Queen Elizabeth proclaim herself the Empress of Britain?
There's nothing that could reportedly prevent Her Majesty -- or any future British regents -- from proclaiming themselves as Empresses or Emperors. But, as mentioned, the title has long been associated with colonialism, imperialist agendas, and tightening controls that be viewed negatively - which is not in the interest of the royals.
Thus, it's very unlikely Queen Elizabeth will decide to proclaim herself and use the title of Empress. Also, the members of parliament need to approve this new title. When the United Kingdom was formed in 1801, the Empiric title was reportedly considered -- meaning, it would've been called The United Empire Of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
However, reigning monarch King George III declined the offer to be made an Emperor, and he reportedly believed the term or the title never had a history in Britain. Hence, there's no need for it.
In another report, Queen Elizabeth's portrait in the Northern Ireland Office was dubbed "offensive" as it reportedly tarnished the colonial part of the UK. According to UK academic Professor Kehinde Andrew, the portrait of the monarch could offend some people.
