The Queen of Denmark, Margaret II, announced in her traditional New Year's address that she would abdicate on January 14th after 52 years of rule.
“On January 14, 2024, 52 years after succeeding my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark. “I will leave the throne to my son, Crown Prince Frederik,” she announced during the speech. A very popular figure, the ruler, widowed since 2018, underwent serious back surgery in February that prevented her from appearing in public until April. “The operation sparked thoughts about the future, that the time had come to pass on responsibility to the next generation,” said the 83-year-old queen. After ascending to the throne following her father's death in 1972, the queen, an intellectual and polyglot, helped modernize the monarchy. After the death of her distant cousin Elizabeth II, Margrethe is the last ruler of Europe.
A very popular figure, the ruler, widowed since 2018, underwent serious back surgery in February that prevented her from appearing in public until April. “The operation sparked thoughts about the future, that the time had come to pass on responsibility to the next generation,” said the 83-year-old queen.
After ascending to the throne following her father's death in 1972, the queen, an intellectual and polyglot, helped modernize the monarchy. After the death of her distant cousin Elizabeth II, Margrethe is the last ruler of Europe.
More than 80% of Danes identify as monarchists, and last year thousands attended the 50th anniversary celebration. “Many of us have never known another monarch. Queen Margerita is the embodiment of Denmark and over the years has given a voice and a feeling to our people and our nation,” said Prime Minister Puts Frederiksen immediately after the Queen's announcement.
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