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Have the royals always been diplomatic tools?

Have the royals always been diplomatic tools?

King Charles's recent visit to the United States prompted much commentary on both sides of the Atlantic, with particular praise given to his speech to Congress

Published: May 7, 2026 at 7:48 AM

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King Charles's recent visit to the United States prompted much commentary on both sides of the Atlantic, with particular praise given to his speech to Congress. But at what other moments in recent history has the royal family been used as a way to reach a political goal? And what did this 'soft diplomacy' look like in the medieval era? Regular panellists Rana Mitter and Hannah Skoda share their thoughts. Plus, as David Attenborough marks his 100th birthday, what contribution has he made to our understanding of the natural world?

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