photo credit: Aaverage Joe

During my time in Scotland, I was able to learn a great deal of history not only of that country, but of England as well. The two nations have their differences, but they intersect in the timeline of history on numerous occasions, as their relations have been fraught with war and conflict.

Touring the many castles, museums, and historical locations, I witnessed repeatedly an odd mentality that seemed completely foreign to me: reverence for monarchy.

My liberty-based education has inculcated in me a profound belief in individual sovereignty and independence. This principle is taught well in our nation’s founding documents. Our Founders fought to throw off the shackles of tyranny imposed by England’s monarchy, allowing for the creation of a Constitutional Republic to perpetuate the freedom they secured.

With our nation’s history, it’s difficult not to despise monarchy. We find all men to be equal, and respect the power of the people. This stands in stark contrast to the mentality which regards one person as being somehow entitled to rule and riches simply on account of their family line. Calling a toddler “Lord” seems downright ridiculous.

But the remnants of monarchy are alive and well in the “United” Kingdom. Tourists could be seen everywhere glowing in delight over the display of riches, wealth, and heirlooms owned by their present and past leaders. And though the power of the monarchy may have faded in recent years, there apparently are still enough people in this world who believe that other individuals can—merely by birthright—claim power over them.

I pity such people.