Queen Margrethe II of Denmark

Margrethe II, born Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid on 16 April 1940, holds the esteemed title of Queen of Denmark and serves as the symbolic commander-in-chief of the Danish Defence. Known to the Danish people as 'Daisy' and officially addressed with a distinct Danish pronunciation [mɑˈkʁeˀtə], she embodies the nation's history and enduring traditions.

Hailing from the House of Glücksburg, a distinguished cadet branch of the House of Oldenburg with deep roots across European royalty, Margrethe II is the eldest daughter of King Frederick IX of Denmark and Queen Ingrid of Sweden. Her lineage connects her to a long line of monarchs, reflecting centuries of European royal heritage.

A Pivotal Constitutional Shift and Succession

Her path to the throne was marked by a significant constitutional change in Denmark. In 1953, with no male heirs from her father, a constitutional amendment was enacted to allow women to inherit the throne, thereby altering the previous male-preference primogeniture. This progressive decision made her the heir presumptive, paving the way for her future reign. Upon the passing of her beloved father, King Frederick IX, on 14 January 1972, Margrethe ascended to the Danish throne. Her accession was a historic moment, as she became the first female monarch of Denmark since the revered Margrethe I, who famously ruled the Scandinavian kingdoms during the Kalmar Union from 1375 to 1412. This remarkable parallel underscores the rarity and significance of a woman holding the Danish crown.

In 1967, she married Henri de Laborde de Monpezat, a French diplomat who subsequently became Prince Henrik of Denmark. Together, they welcomed two sons into the royal family: Crown Prince Frederik, who is now the heir apparent, and Prince Joachim. Prince Henrik, known for his love of poetry and a unique personal style, brought a touch of French culture to the Danish court and shared a long marriage with the Queen until his passing in 2018.

Beyond the Crown: Passions and Pursuits

Beyond her official duties, Queen Margrethe II is celebrated for her profound intellectual curiosity and diverse artistic talents. She possesses a particularly strong passion for archaeology, an interest she shared with her maternal grandfather, Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden. This shared love for history and discovery led them to participate in several archaeological excavations together, notably near Etruria in Italy in 1962, where they spent time unearthing ancient artefacts. Her archaeological adventures have taken her to various corners of the globe, including Italy, Egypt, Denmark, and even South America.

Her creative spirit extends far beyond archaeology. Queen Margrethe is also a gifted painter, textile artist, and illustrator. Under the pseudonym Ingahild Grath, she famously illustrated the Danish editions of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and has designed costumes and sets for various ballets and theatrical productions, showcasing her artistic versatility and engagement with cultural life.

A Reign of Diplomacy and Enduring Popularity

As a sovereign, Queen Margrethe II has actively engaged in international diplomacy. As of 2022, her reign has seen her officially host 42 state visits from leaders around the world, strengthening Denmark's international relationships. Demonstrating her commitment to global ties, she has also personally undertaken 55 foreign state visits, accompanied by other members of the royal family on numerous additional foreign engagements. These visits serve as crucial platforms for cultural exchange, trade promotion, and fostering goodwill.

Throughout her long and distinguished reign, support for the monarchy in Denmark has remained exceptionally high, consistently hovering around 82%. This strong public backing is a testament to the monarchy's enduring relevance and the Queen's personal popularity. She is widely admired for her steadfast dedication, her ability to unite the nation, and her modern yet dignified approach to her role, serving as a unifying figure and a beloved symbol of Danish identity and continuity.

Frequently Asked Questions about Queen Margrethe II

What is Queen Margrethe II's full official title?

Her full official title is Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II, by the Grace of God, Queen of Denmark.

How did Queen Margrethe II become Queen?

She became heir presumptive in 1953 when a constitutional amendment allowed women to inherit the Danish throne. Upon the death of her father, King Frederick IX, on 14 January 1972, she succeeded him as monarch.

What is the role of the Danish monarch today?

The Danish monarch today is a constitutional head of state, meaning the role is primarily ceremonial and non-political. The Queen's duties include signing new laws, participating in the formation of new governments, hosting state visits, acting as a unifying figure, and representing Denmark both domestically and internationally. Real political power resides with the Danish Parliament (Folketing) and the government.

Is Queen Margrethe II related to other European royals?

Yes, she is closely related to many European royal families through her lineage from the House of Glücksburg. She is a first cousin of King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden and a second cousin of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, as well as a distant relative to many other European monarchs.

What are some of Queen Margrethe II's famous hobbies and interests?

She is well-known for her deep passion for archaeology, having participated in several excavations. Additionally, she is an accomplished artist, skilled in painting, textile work, and illustration, famously illustrating J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" under a pseudonym.

Who is the successor to Queen Margrethe II?

Her eldest son, Crown Prince Frederik, is the heir apparent and will succeed her to the Danish throne.