How many living kingdoms are there in the world today? This question may seem simple at first glance, but the answer is not as straightforward as one might think. The concept of a kingdom, historically, refers to a territory ruled by a monarch, but in the modern world, the definition has evolved. With the rise of republics, democracies, and other forms of government, the number of living kingdoms has significantly decreased. However, there are still a few monarchies that have managed to survive the test of time.
The most prominent living kingdoms are found in Europe, where the tradition of monarchy has deep historical roots. The United Kingdom, with its Queen Elizabeth II at the helm, is the oldest and most well-known living kingdom. Other European monarchies include Spain, with King Felipe VI; Belgium, with King Philippe; and the Netherlands, with King Willem-Alexander. These countries have managed to preserve their monarchies despite the changing political landscape.
In Africa, there are several living kingdoms, most notably the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and the Kingdom of Lesotho. Both of these countries have monarchs who hold significant cultural and symbolic importance within their societies. Additionally, there are several smaller kingdoms in Africa, such as the Kingdom of Morocco and the Kingdom of Jordan, which have maintained their monarchies for centuries.
Asia also hosts a few living kingdoms, with the Kingdom of Thailand being the most prominent example. Thailand’s King Maha Vajiralongkorn is the current monarch, and the country’s royal family holds a revered position in Thai society. Other Asian monarchies include the Kingdom of Bhutan, with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and the Kingdom of Cambodia, with King Norodom Sihamoni.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, although not traditionally European, is often included in discussions about living kingdoms due to its significant global influence. The Saudi monarchy, led by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, has been in power since 2015.
It is important to note that the number of living kingdoms is not static. Some countries have abolished their monarchies, while others have restored them. For instance, the Kingdom of Nepal was restored in 2008 after a period of republicanism. Similarly, the Kingdom of Spain was restored in 1975 after the death of Francisco Franco, who had declared Spain a republic following the Spanish Civil War.
In conclusion, while the number of living kingdoms has dwindled over the centuries, there are still several monarchies that have managed to endure. With a total of around 20 living kingdoms worldwide, these monarchies continue to play a vital role in the cultural and political landscapes of their respective countries. The question of how many living kingdoms there are, therefore, is not just a simple count but a reflection of the rich tapestry of history and tradition that continues to shape our world today.
