Bruno Pugh
Imagine being a ruler for decades, long enough to see empires rise and fall, new inventions come to life, and fashion changes! Throughout history, a few monarchs have managed to keep their crowns for an incredible amount of time, skillfully handling the ups and downs of politics, wars, and social changes. Join us as we look into 15 monarchs who stood the test of time.
King Charles II of England
Let’s begin with King Charles II, who ruled for 25 years. Known as the “Merry Monarch,” he brought joy back to England after the Civil War. Charles was a real charmer, famous for his love of the arts and many romantic escapades. He had a reputation for being quite the ladies’ man.
King Edward I of England
Next is Edward I, a real warrior king who earned his nickname, “Longshanks,” by being tall and formidable on the battlefield. His determination to assert his dominance over Scotland led to some epic battles. Edward also reformed the legal system and ruled from 1272 to 1307.
King Henry III of England
Then we have King Henry III, who was sovereign for 56 years. He loved architecture and famously oversaw the construction of Westminster Abbey. Henry faced several challenges, especially from rebellious nobles, but was committed to promoting religious reform and expanding royal power.
King Christian IV of Denmark
Let’s not forget a true Renaissance man, a patron of the arts who commissioned stunning buildings that still stand today: King Christian IV, who ruled for 60 years! Christian loved architecture and was noted for his grand projects but faced military conflicts and financial difficulties.
Emperor Hirohito of Japan
Hirohito was a fascinating character. He was passionate about marine biology and even published scientific papers! Emperor Hirohito sat on the throne from 1926 to 1989, and his tenure saw Japan through some monumental changes, including World War II and its post-war recovery. He played an essential role in modernizing Japan.
Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom
An influential figure in British history and a symbol of the British Empire for almost 64 years, Queen Victoria was recognized for her strict morals and family values. She also had a passionate side—she deeply loved her husband, Prince Albert, and she famously wore black for the rest of her life after his death.
Ferdinand III of Sicily
A skilled diplomat and warrior, Ferdinand III of Sicily handled the complexities of medieval politics with finesse during his 66 years of dominion. Ferdinand faced revolutions and invasions, including being deposed twice—first by the French in 1806! But he bounced back after Napoleon’s defeat and returned to power in 1815.
Chan Imix K’awiil
The “Smoke Jaguar” of Copán, Chan Imix K’awiil’s reign was marked by prosperity and cultural development. He expanded his city’s influence, built stunning monuments, and had a tomb prepared long before his death. He lived for 90 years and held the throne for 67 years and 130 days.
Franz Joseph of Austria
Having become a king after his childless uncle abdicated the throne in his favor, he ruled for almost 68 years! Famous for his iconic mustache and sideburns, he married Empress Elisabeth. Franz faced the 1848 revolutions, the Austro-Prussian War, and the tragic assassination of his nephew, which kicked off World War I.
K’inich Janaab Pakal of Palenque
K’inich Janaab Pakal was a master builder who supervised the construction of the iconic Temple of the Inscriptions, which holds his sarcophagus. He became king at just 12 years old and ruled for 68 years. There’s even a wild theory that the lid of his tomb shows him piloting a spaceship!
Johann II of Liechtenstein
Next, we have Johann II, a real trailblazer who turned his tiny nation into a modern constitutional monarchy. Interestingly, he never married or had kids, but he was a big supporter of the arts and loved literature for the 70 years he was in power, earning him the nickname Johann the Good.
Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) of Thailand
Also known as Rama IX, Bhumibol Adulyadej became the king after his brother, King Ananda Mahidol, was shot dead in his sleep. Bhumibol was a jazz enthusiast, and his love for music led him to form a jazz band that performed at the palace during his 70 years of government.
Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom
Did you know Elizabeth II served in the military during World War II? She was the first female royal to do so and to learn to drive and fix vehicles! She took the crown at age 25 and ruled fifteen realms for 70 years and 214 days. She also met 13 U.S. presidents!
Louis XIV of France
Famously known as the Sun King, Louis XIV became a king at age five and ruled for 72 years and 110 days! He was the longest-reigning monarch in European history. He expanded French territory and built the stunning Palace of Versailles. His reign also included some costly wars that drained the country’s resources.
King Sobhuza II of Swaziland
Sobhuza II became king as an infant in 1899 and ruled for almost 83 years. Still, his reign is not included in the official list of longest-reigning monarchs due to Swaziland’s status as a British protectorate during most of his rule. He was dedicated to Swazi independence during colonial rule.