Margrethe II has now ruled Denmark for 50 years.
The Danish Monarch marks her Golden Jubilee today, January 14th 2022.
Her reign, only the second time a woman has ruled Denmark, has been popular and successful and marked by modernisation of the monarchy. Her Majesty takes as her motto ”God’s help, the love of The People, Denmark’s strength.”
Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid was born on April 16th 1940, the first child of the then Crown Prince and Princess of Denmark, Frederik and Ingrid. She had no rights to the throne which, at the time, could only be inherited by men. However, following her father’s accession as King Frederik IX, a new Act of Succession changed that and Margrethe became heir to the throne. She succeeded her father on his death on January 14th 1972.
On her accession, Margrethe told the people of Denmark ”The task that my father had carried for nearly 25 years is now resting on my shoulders. I pray to God to give me help and strength to carry the heavy heritage.”
For much of her reign, Margrethe was supported by her husband and consort, Henrik, who she had married in 1967. The couple had two sons and their elder child, Frederik, today marks 50 years as Crown Prince of Denmark. Henrik died in 2018.
Margrethe II’s Jubilee day will be marked quietly, owing to the ongoing pandemic but celebrations are planned for later in 2022.
Margrethe II, Queen of Denmark for 50 years.