Many people like to think they’re above the fantasy of royalty. Serious people dress in suits, work in an office in a capitol building, and they certainly don’t wear crowns! Hmph!

In truth,  fame, money, and the trappings of titles are things that people dream about. Some even make it a reality.

The American media loves the Kennedys and once proclaimed Jackie O. as their “Queen”. The former first lady even had frocks and hats made in the style of Her Majesty’s outfits.

An American Royal Family?

Activist Jesse Jackson was recently crowned an African prince by the Agni people of the Ivory Coast. The same nation also crowned the late Michael Jackson king back in 1992. Michael, the crazy musician famed for hits such as “Thriller” and “Billie Jean”, even named his sons Prince Michael and Prince Michael II.

It’s not just Americans who desire to live in regal fantasy with royal power and the respect of a nation. The English have the same desire – and fuel ours – with their very real Monarchy. Some of the public like it, some don’t, but all can agree that it has cast a spell over the world. Even the tiny Kingdom of Tonga celebrated the coronation of its newest king in an English style – crown, scepter, robes, and throne. His name is even King George. That’s influence a politician can only dream of, and will most likely never have.

Just off the coast of England, there is even a tiny principality named Sealand that is controlled by a ‘royal family’. Just to warn you: it doesn’t have casinos or yachts in a harbor. “Sealand” is actually an anti-aircraft platform beyond the boundary of the U. K.’s territorial waters called Roughs Tower.

Roy Bates, a former Major in the British Army, ran the legendary Radio Essex from Knock John Tower in the 1960s. When convicted in 1966 of violating British broadcasting law, he moved his broadcasting equipment to Roughs Tower where he established himself as “Prince Roy” and renamed the platform Sealand. Roy Bates’ son, Michael, has been referred to as the “Prince Regent” by the family since 1999. Bates’ wife is “Princess Joan”.

This principality isn’t joking around, either. They’ve minted coins, issued stamps, composed a national anthem, and have even had a row with the Germans. They look like they’re here to stay.

As long as human beings have the need for a regal leader and that dream of enchantment, the concept of monarchy will never die. That’s not a rallying cry; it’s the truth.