# Monarchy of Denmark > Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Monarchy_of_Denmark > Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Monarchy_of_Denmark.md > Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarchy_of_Denmark > Source revision: 1355149700 > License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/) {{Short description|none}} {{About|the history and function of the Danish Monarchy as an institution|the Kingdom of Denmark itself|Danish Realm|a list of Kings of Denmark|List of monarchs of Denmark}} {{redirect|Queen of Denmark}} {{Redirect|King of Denmark|other uses|Kongen af Danmark (disambiguation){{!}}Kongen af Danmark}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2024}} {{Infobox monarchy | royal_title = King | realm = Denmark | native_name = {{lang|da|Danmarks Konge}} | border = | coatofarms = Royal coat of arms of Denmark (2024).svg | coatofarms_size = | coa_alt = | coatofarms_article = Royal coat of arms of Denmark | coatofarmscaption = | type = non-commonwealth | his/her = His | image = King Frederik X in 2025.jpg | image_size = | alt = | incumbent = [Frederik X](/source/Frederik_X) | incumbentsince = 14 January 2024 | other = | heir_apparent = [Christian, Crown Prince of Denmark](/source/Christian%2C_Crown_Prince_of_Denmark) | heir_presumptive = | first_monarch = [Ongendus](/source/Ongendus) (first king known by name) | last_monarch = | formation = {{start date and age|df=y|710}} | abolition = | residences = ''[See list](/source/List_of_Danish_royal_residences)'' | appointer = | titlenote = | website = {{URL|www.kongehuset.dk/en}} }} {{Politics of Denmark}} The '''monarchy of Denmark''' is a [constitution](/source/constitution)al [institution](/source/political_system) and an office of the [Kingdom of Denmark](/source/Kingdom_of_Denmark). The Kingdom includes [Denmark](/source/Denmark) proper and the [autonomous territories](/source/autonomous_administrative_division) of the [Faroe Islands](/source/Faroe_Islands) and [Greenland](/source/Greenland). The Kingdom of Denmark was already consolidated in the 8th century, whose rulers are consistently referred to in [Frankish](/source/Franks) sources (and in some late [Frisian](/source/Frisians) sources) as "kings" ({{Wikt-lang|la|reges}}). Under the rule of King [Gudfred](/source/Gudfred) in 804 the Kingdom may have included all the major [provinces of medieval Denmark](/source/Lands_of_Denmark).{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=UmFrVUb5DSwC&q=danish+kingdom+king+godfred&pg=PA76|title=Christianization and the Rise of Christian Monarchy: Scandinavia, Central Europe and Rus' c.900–1200|first=Nora|last=Berend|date=22 November 2007|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=9781139468367|via=Google Books}} The current unified Kingdom of Denmark was founded or re-united by the [Viking](/source/Vikings) kings [Gorm the Old](/source/Gorm_the_Old) and [Harald Bluetooth](/source/Harald_Bluetooth) in the 10th century. Originally an [elective monarchy](/source/elective_monarchy), it became [hereditary](/source/hereditary_monarchy) only in the 17th century during the reign of [Frederick III](/source/Frederick_III_of_Denmark). A decisive transition to a [constitutional monarchy](/source/constitutional_monarchy) occurred in 1849 with the writing of the first democratic constitution, replacing the vast majority of [the old absolutist constitution](/source/King's_Law). The current [Royal House](/source/Royal_House) is a branch of the ducal [House of Glücksburg](/source/House_of_Gl%C3%BCcksburg), originally from [Schleswig-Holstein](/source/Schleswig-Holstein) in modern-day Germany, the House of Glücksburg itself being a collateral branch of the [House of Oldenburg](/source/House_of_Oldenburg). The House of Glücksburg also produced the monarchs [of Norway](/source/Norwegian_Royal_Family), [of the United Kingdom](/source/Charles_III) and the [former monarch of Greece](/source/Greek_Royal_Family) in the direct male line. The Danish monarchy is [constitutional](/source/constitutional_monarchy) and as such, the role of the monarch is defined and limited by the [Constitution of Denmark](/source/Constitution_of_Denmark). According to the constitution, the ultimate [executive](/source/Executive_(government)) authority over the government of Denmark is still by and through the monarch's royal [reserve power](/source/reserve_power)s; in practice these powers are only used according to laws enacted in [Parliament](/source/Folketing) or within the constraints of convention. The monarch is, in practice, limited to non-partisan functions such as bestowing [honours](/source/List_of_orders%2C_decorations%2C_and_medals_of_the_Kingdom_of_Denmark) and formally appointing the [prime minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Denmark). The monarch and [their immediate family](/source/Danish_Royal_Family) undertake various official, ceremonial, diplomatic and representational duties. [King Frederik X](/source/King_Frederik_X) ascended the throne following the [abdication](/source/Abdication_of_Margrethe_II) of his mother, [Queen Margrethe II](/source/Queen_Margrethe_II), on 14 January 2024. Danish [regnal name](/source/regnal_name)s have traditionally (since 1513) alternated between "Frederik" (anglicised to ''Frederick'') and "Christian". Accordingly, Frederik's heir apparent is [Crown Prince Christian](/source/Christian%2C_Crown_Prince_of_Denmark). ==History== {{Further|List of Danish monarchs}} ===Early kingdom=== [[File:Jellingsten stor 1.jpg|thumb|left|upright|One of the two [Jelling stones](/source/Jelling_stones), attesting to Harald Bluetooth's unification and Christianization of Denmark]] The Danish monarchy is over 1200 years old, founded in the 8th century (or earlier).Lund, Niels (2020). ''Jellingkongerne og deres forgængere'', Gylling: [Vikingeskibsmuseet i Roskilde](/source/Viking_Ship_Museum_(Roskilde)). {{ISBN|978-87-85180-75-9}}''[Weekendavisen](/source/Weekendavisen)'', 10 December 2020 – Anders Lundt Hansen: [https://www.weekendavisen.dk/2020-50/ideer/udvid-kongeraekken "Udvid kongerækken"] The line of kings of the modern kingdom of Denmark can be traced back to [Harthacnut](/source/Harthacnut_I_of_Denmark) father of [Gorm the Old](/source/Gorm_the_Old) ({{langx|non|Gormr gamli}}, {{langx|da|Gorm den gamle}}), who reigned in the early and mid 10th century.{{cite web | title = Den-Danske-Kongestamme | work = kongehuset.dk | publisher = Kongehuset | date = 2015 | url = http://kongehuset.dk/Menu/nyheder/den-danske-kongestamme | access-date = 30 March 2015 | archive-date = 2 April 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402154911/http://kongehuset.dk/Menu/nyheder/den-danske-kongestamme | url-status = dead }} The kingdom itself though is probably a couple of hundred years older than that. The Danes were united (or more likely reunited) and officially [Christianized](/source/Christianization_of_Scandinavia) in 965 AD by [Harald Bluetooth](/source/Harald_Bluetooth), the story of which is recorded on the [Jelling stones](/source/Jelling_stones). The exact extent of Harald's kingdom is unknown, although it is reasonable to believe that it stretched from the defensive line of [Dannevirke](/source/Danevirke), including the Viking city of [Hedeby](/source/Hedeby), across [Jutland](/source/Jutland), the Danish isles and into southern present day Sweden; [Scania](/source/Scania) and perhaps [Halland](/source/Halland). Furthermore, the Jelling stones attests that Harald had also "won" Norway. The son of Harald, [Sweyn Forkbeard](/source/Sweyn_Forkbeard), mounted a series of wars of conquest against England, which was completed by Sweyn's son [Cnut the Great](/source/Cnut_the_Great) by the middle of the eleventh century. The reign of Cnut represented the peak of the Danish Viking age; his [North Sea Empire](/source/North_Sea_Empire) included England (1016), Denmark (1018), Norway (1028) and held strong influence over the north-eastern coast of Germany. The last monarch descended from [Valdemar IV](/source/Valdemar_IV_of_Denmark), [Christopher III of Denmark](/source/Christopher_of_Bavaria), died in 1448 AD. Count Christian of Oldenburg, descendant of Sophia, the daughter of Valdemar IV's aunt [Richeza of Denmark, Lady of Werle](/source/Eric_V_of_Denmark), who was the daughter of [Eric V of Denmark](/source/Eric_V_of_Denmark), was chosen as his successor and became the next monarch of Denmark, ruling under the name [Christian I](/source/Christian_I_of_Denmark). Richeza thus can be considered as a sort of female [founder](/source/Progenitor) of the [House of Oldenburg](/source/House_of_Oldenburg). ===Absolutism=== [[File:Christiansborg - mindetavlen i Kongeporten.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Memorial inside [Christiansborg Palace](/source/Christiansborg_Palace). Depicted is Frederick III and the event commemorated is the [failed Swedish attack on Copenhagen in 1659](/source/Assault_on_Copenhagen_(1659)).]] Originally the Danish monarchy was elective, but in practice the eldest son of the reigning monarch was elected. Later a [Coronation Charter](/source/Coronation_Charter_of_Denmark) was signed by the king to restrict the powers of the Danish monarch. In 1657, during the [Second Northern War](/source/Second_Northern_War), King [Frederick III](/source/Frederick_III_of_Denmark) launched a war of revenge against Sweden which turned into a complete disaster. The war became a disaster for two reasons: Primarily, because Denmark's new powerful ally, the Netherlands, remained neutral as Denmark was the aggressor and Sweden the defender. Secondly, the [Belts](/source/Great_Belt) froze over in a rare occurrence during the winter of 1657–1658, allowing King [Charles X Gustav of Sweden](/source/Charles_X_Gustav_of_Sweden) to [lead his armies across the ice](/source/March_across_the_Belts) to invade [Zealand](/source/Zealand). In the following [Treaty of Roskilde](/source/Treaty_of_Roskilde), [Denmark–Norway](/source/Denmark%E2%80%93Norway) capitulated and gave up all of [Eastern Denmark](/source/Terra_Scania) (i.e. [Skåne](/source/Sk%C3%A5ne), [Halland](/source/Halland), [Blekinge](/source/Blekinge) and [Bornholm](/source/Bornholm)), in addition to the counties of [Bohuslän](/source/Bohusl%C3%A4n) and [Trøndelag](/source/Tr%C3%B8ndelag) in Norway. But the Second Northern War was not yet over. Three months after the peace treaty was signed, Charles X Gustav held a council of war where he decided to simply wipe Denmark from the map and unite all of Scandinavia under his rule. Once again the Swedish army arrived outside Copenhagen. However, this time the Danes did not panic or surrender. Instead, they decided to fight and prepared to defend Copenhagen. Frederick III had stayed in his capital and now encouraged the citizens of Copenhagen to resist the Swedes, by saying he would "die in his nest", rather than to evacuate to safety in Norway. Furthermore, this unprovoked declaration of war by Sweden finally triggered the alliance that Denmark–Norway had with the Netherlands, and a powerful Dutch fleet was sent to Copenhagen with vital supplies and reinforcements, which saved the city from being captured during the [Swedish attack](/source/Assault_on_Copenhagen_(1659)). Charles X Gustav suddenly died of an illness in early 1660, while planning an invasion of Norway. Following his death, Sweden made peace in the [Treaty of Copenhagen](/source/Treaty_of_Copenhagen_(1660)). The Swedes returned [Trøndelag](/source/Tr%C3%B8ndelag) to Norway and [Bornholm](/source/Bornholm) to Denmark, but kept the other territories gained two years earlier. The Netherlands and other European powers accepted the settlement, not wanting both coasts of the [Øresund](/source/%C3%98resund) [strait](/source/strait) controlled by Denmark. This treaty established the boundaries between Norway, Denmark, and Sweden that still exist today. [Absolutism was introduced](/source/1660_state_of_emergency_in_Denmark) in 1660–1661 and the elective monarchy was de jure transformed into an [hereditary monarchy](/source/hereditary_monarchy). An official absolutist constitution, where absolute power and male primogeniture succession was laid down in the [King's Law](/source/King's_Law) (Lex Regia) of 1665.{{Cite journal|last=Ekman|first=Ernst|date=1957|title=The Danish Royal Law of 1665|url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1086/237987|journal=The Journal of Modern History|volume=29|issue=2|pages=102–107|doi=10.1086/237987|s2cid=145652129|issn=0022-2801|via=|url-access=subscription}} ===Constitutional period=== [[Image:Christian X.jpg|right|thumb|During the [German occupation of World War II](/source/Occupation_of_Denmark), King [Christian X](/source/Christian_X_of_Denmark) became a powerful symbol of national identity. This image dates from the King's birthday, 26 September 1940]] When he succeeded to the throne in January 1848, King [Frederick VII](/source/Frederick_VII_of_Denmark) was almost at once met by the demands for a constitution and an end to absolutism. The Schleswig-Holsteiners wanted an independent state while the Danes wished to maintain South Jutland as a Danish area. Frederick VII soon yielded to the Danish demands, and in March he accepted the end of [absolutism](/source/Absolute_monarchy), which resulted in the [June Constitution of 1849](/source/Constitution_of_Denmark). During the [First War of Schleswig](/source/First_War_of_Schleswig) against the German powers in 1848–51, Frederick appeared as "the national leader" and was regarded almost as a war hero, despite having never taken any active part in the struggles. On 5 June 1849 the constitution, known as the June Constitution, was altered to create the framework of a [constitutional monarchy](/source/constitutional_monarchy) for Denmark. As King Frederick VII was without legitimate issue, [Prince Christian of Glücksborg](/source/Christian_IX_of_Denmark) was chosen in 1853 as [heir presumptive](/source/heir_presumptive) to the Danish throne, with the approval of the [great powers](/source/great_powers) of Europe, in light of the expected extinction of the senior line of the [House of Oldenburg](/source/House_of_Oldenburg). A justification for this choice was his marriage to [Louise of Hesse-Kassel](/source/Louise_of_Hesse-Kassel), who as a niece of [Christian VIII](/source/Christian_VIII_of_Denmark), was a more close relative to the incumbent king than her husband. Upon the death of King [Frederick VII of Denmark](/source/Frederick_VII_of_Denmark) in 1863, [Christian IX](/source/Christian_IX_of_Denmark) acceded to the throne as the first Danish monarch of the [House of Glücksburg](/source/House_of_Gl%C3%BCcksburg). Christian IX eventually became known as ''[Father-in-law of Europe](/source/Father-in-law_of_Europe)'' due to his [family ties with most other ruling dynasties](/source/Royal_intermarriage) of Europe: His daughter [Princess Alexandra](/source/Alexandra_of_Denmark) married [Edward VII of the United Kingdom](/source/Edward_VII_of_the_United_Kingdom), another daughter [Princess Dagmar](/source/Maria_Feodorovna_(Dagmar_of_Denmark)) married [Alexander III of Russia](/source/Alexander_III_of_Russia) and [Princess Thyra](/source/Princess_Thyra_of_Denmark) married [Crown Prince Ernst August of Hanover](/source/Ernest_Augustus%2C_Crown_Prince_of_Hanover). His son Vilhelm went on to become [George I of Greece](/source/George_I_of_Greece). Further, his grandson Carl became [Haakon VII of Norway](/source/Haakon_VII_of_Norway). To this day the Danish Royal Family are related to most other reigning European dynasties.{{cite web |url=http://kongehuset.dk/publish.php?dogtag=k_en_his_mor |title=The History of the Danish Monarchy |access-date=16 December 2008 |publisher=Danish monarchy |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081225132239/http://kongehuset.dk/publish.php?dogtag=k_en_his_mor |archive-date=25 December 2008 |df=dmy-all }} The [Easter Crisis of 1920](/source/Easter_Crisis_of_1920) was a [constitutional crisis](/source/constitutional_crisis) which began with the dismissal of the elected government by [King Christian X](/source/Christian_X_of_Denmark), a [reserve power](/source/reserve_power) which was granted to him by the [Danish constitution](/source/Danish_constitution). The immediate cause was a conflict between the king and the cabinet over the reunification with Denmark of [Schleswig](/source/Schleswig), a former Danish [fiefdom](/source/fiefdom) which had been lost to [Prussia](/source/Prussia) during the [Second War of Schleswig](/source/Second_War_of_Schleswig). According to the terms of the [Treaty of Versailles](/source/Treaty_of_Versailles), the disposition of Schleswig was to be determined by two [Schleswig Plebiscites](/source/Schleswig_Plebiscites): one in Northern Schleswig (today Denmark's [South Jutland County](/source/South_Jutland_County)), the other in Central Schleswig (today part of the [German](/source/Germany) state of [Schleswig-Holstein](/source/Schleswig-Holstein)). Many Danish [nationalists](/source/nationalism) felt that Central Schleswig should be returned to Denmark regardless of the plebiscite's results, generally motivated by a desire to see Germany permanently weakened in the future. Christian X agreed with these sentiments, and ordered Prime Minister [Carl Theodor Zahle](/source/Carl_Theodor_Zahle) to include Central Schleswig in the re-unification process. As Denmark had been operating as a [parliamentary democracy](/source/parliamentary_democracy) since the [Cabinet of Deuntzer](/source/Cabinet_of_Deuntzer) in 1901, Zahle felt he was under no obligation to comply. He refused the order and resigned several days later after a heated exchange with the king. Subsequently, Christian X dismissed the rest of the government and replaced it with a de facto conservative care-taker cabinet under [Otto Liebe](/source/Otto_Liebe). The dismissal caused demonstrations and an almost revolutionary atmosphere in Denmark, and for several days the future of the monarchy seemed very much in doubt. In light of this, negotiations were opened between the king and members of the [Social Democrats](/source/Social_Democrats_(Denmark)). Faced with the potential overthrow of the Danish monarchy, Christian X backed down and dismissed his own government. This was the most recent time that a sitting Danish monarch made an executive decision without the support of a cabinet accountable to the legislature; following the crisis, Christian X accepted his drastically reduced role as symbolic [head of state](/source/head_of_state).{{cite web|url=http://dendigitalebyport.byhistorie.dk/monumenter/artikel.aspx?xid=re-unification|title=Monumenter i købstaden 1864 – 1920|website=dendigitalebyport.byhistorie.dk}} The [Act of Succession of 27 March 1953](/source/Act_of_Succession_(Denmark)) was promulgated after a [1953 referendum](/source/1953_Danish_constitutional_and_electoral_age_referendum) introduced the possibility of female succession and, in effect, made Princess Margrethe the [heir presumptive](/source/heir_presumptive) to her father, [Frederik IX](/source/Frederik_IX_of_Denmark) rather than her uncle [Prince Knud](/source/Knud%2C_Hereditary_Prince_of_Denmark). Upon Frederik IX's death in 1972, [Queen Margrethe II](/source/Queen_Margrethe_II) ascended to the throne and reigned until her abdication in 2024. Following a [referendum in 2009](/source/2009_Danish_Act_of_Succession_referendum), the Act of Succession was amended so that [primogeniture](/source/primogeniture) no longer puts males over females; a first-born child becomes heir to the throne regardless of gender.{{cite web|url=http://politiken.dk/newsinenglish/article727469.ece|title=Referendum: Succession amendment confirmed|date=8 June 2009 }} ==Constitutional and official role== [[File:THRONE_ROOM,_CHRISTIANSBORG_PALACE,_COPENHAGEN.jpg|right|thumb|250px|The Throne Room at [Christiansborg Palace](/source/Christiansborg_Palace) is where foreign ambassadors present their [credentials](/source/credentials) to the King]] According to the [Danish Constitution](/source/Danish_Constitution), the Danish monarch, is the [head of state](/source/head_of_state) and [implicitly](/source/commander-in-chief) the [commander-in-chief](/source/commander-in-chief) of the [Danish Armed Forces](/source/Danish_Defence) and is the holder of [executive power](/source/executive_power) and, jointly with the [Folketing](/source/Folketing), [legislative power](/source/legislative_power).[Constitutional Act of Denmark](/source/s%3AConstitutional_Act_of_Denmark%2C_5_June_1953) The monarch has the ability to deny giving a [bill](/source/Bill_(proposed_law)) [royal assent](/source/royal_assent) as well as to choose and dismiss the [Prime Minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Denmark) or any Minister of Government with or without cause; however, no monarch has exercised the latter powers since King [Christian X](/source/Christian_X) dismissed the government on 28 March 1920, sparking the [1920 Easter Crisis](/source/Easter_Crisis_of_1920). The Monarch along with the Folketing is the Head of the [Church of Denmark](/source/Church_of_Denmark), as well as being the head of the Danish Honors system. However, when reading the Danish Constitution of 1953, it is important to bear in mind that the usage of the word ''king'', in the context of exercising acts of state, is understood by Danish jurists to be read as the ''[Government](/source/Cabinet_of_Denmark)'' (consisting of the [Prime Minister](/source/Prime_Minister_of_Denmark) and other ministers). This is a logical consequence of articles 12, 13 and 14, all of which in essence stipulate that the powers vested in the monarch can only be exercised through ministers, who are responsible for all acts, thus removing any political or legal liability from the monarch.{{cite web|url=http://www.thedanishparliament.dk/Publications/~/media/Pdf_materiale/Pdf_publikationer/English/My_Constitutional_Act_v_11_2013.pdf.ashx |title=My Constitution Act with Explanations 2013 |publisher=[Folketing](/source/Folketing) |access-date=10 January 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103060508/http://www.thedanishparliament.dk/Publications/~/media/Pdf_materiale/Pdf_publikationer/English/My_Constitutional_Act_v_11_2013.pdf.ashx |archive-date=3 November 2013 }} Today the monarch delegates much royal authority to Ministers in government, allowing the king to engage in the [ceremonial role](/source/Figurehead) outlined by the Danish constitution. The Prime Minister and Cabinet attend the regular meetings of the [Council of State](/source/Danish_Council_of_State), at which the monarch presides and gives royal assent to laws. The Prime Minister and the [Minister of Foreign Affairs](/source/Minister_of_Foreign_Affairs_(Denmark)) report regularly to the monarch to advise him of the latest political developments. The monarch hosts official visits by foreign Heads of State, pays state visits abroad, receives [letters of credence](/source/letter_of_credence) from foreign ambassadors and signs those of Danish ambassadors. The convention for appointment of a new prime minister after a general election is that after consultation with representatives of the political parties, the monarch invites the party leader who has the support of the largest number of seats in the Folketing to form a government. Once it has been formed, the monarch formally appoints it.{{cite web |url=http://kongehuset.dk/publish.php?dogtag=k_en_his_mor |title=The History of the Danish Monarchy - Tasks and Duties |access-date=16 December 2008 |publisher=Danish monarchy |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081225132239/http://kongehuset.dk/publish.php?dogtag=k_en_his_mor |archive-date=25 December 2008 |df=dmy-all }} ===Greenland and the Faroe Islands=== [Greenland](/source/Greenland) and the [Faroe Islands](/source/Faroe_Islands) are part of the [Kingdom of Denmark](/source/Danish_Realm) and thus their head of state is also the monarch of Denmark, in accordance with the Danish Constitution.{{cite web |url=http://www.gh.gl/uk/facts/frameset.htm |title=Facts about Greenland |website=gh.gl |access-date=2008-12-16 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090315060050/http://www.gh.gl/uk/facts/frameset.htm |archive-date=15 March 2009 |df=dmy-all }} After a referendum in Greenland in 2009, the [Danish Parliament](/source/Folketing) adopted the Act on Greenlandic Self-Rule, which acknowledges Greenlanders as a people in accordance with [international law](/source/international_law), thereby recognizing the right of Greenlanders to [self-determination](/source/self-determination).{{Cite web|title = Selvstyreloven – Lov om Grønlands Selvstyre |url = https://www.retsinformation.dk/forms/r0710.aspx?id=125052|website = retsinformation.dk|access-date = 15 January 2016|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20181106211314/https://www.retsinformation.dk/Forms/R0710.aspx?id=125052|archive-date = 6 November 2018|url-status = dead}} ==Succession== {{Main|Succession to the Danish throne}} right|thumb|Christian, Crown Prince of Denmark has been the heir apparent since 2024 [Denmark](/source/Denmark) has had [absolute primogeniture](/source/absolute_primogeniture) since 2009. The [Danish Act of Succession](/source/Act_of_Succession_(Denmark)){{cite web|url= http://www.oefre.unibe.ch/law/icl/da01000_.html |title= Denmark — Succession to the Throne Act |work=ICL |date=27 March 1953 |access-date=24 June 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080530180527/http://www.oefre.unibe.ch/law/icl/da01000_.html |archive-date = 30 May 2008}} adopted on 27 March 1953 restricts the throne to those descended from [King Christian X](/source/Christian_X_of_Denmark) and his wife, [Alexandrine of Mecklenburg-Schwerin](/source/Alexandrine_of_Mecklenburg-Schwerin), through approved marriages. Dynasts lose their right to the throne if they marry without the permission of the monarch given in the Council of State. Individuals born to unmarried dynasts or to former dynasts who married without royal permission, and their descendants, are excluded from the throne. Further, when approving a marriage, the monarch can impose conditions that must be met in order for any resulting offspring to have succession rights. Part II, Section 9 of the Danish Constitution of 5 June 1953 provides that the parliament will elect a king and determine a new line of succession should a situation arise where there are no eligible descendants of King Christian X and Queen Alexandrine. The monarch of Denmark must be a member of the [Danish National Church](/source/Danish_National_Church), or Evangelical Lutheran Church of Denmark ([Danish Constitution](/source/Danish_Constitution), II,6). The National Church is by law the [State Church](/source/State_Church). Although the monarch is not the head of the Church, the monarch, together with the [Folketing](/source/Folketing), makes up the secular supreme authority of the Church. In that role, the monarch is requested to fulfil certain duties pertaining to the Church, such as appointing new bishops and authorising texts for use in the Church.{{cite web |url-status=dead |url=http://www.kristendom.dk/artikel/361939:Indfoering--Dronningen-og-forholdet-til-folkekirken |website=kristendom.dk |title=Dronningen og forholdet til folkekirken |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111220045347/http://www.kristendom.dk/artikel/361939:Indfoering--Dronningen-og-forholdet-til-folkekirken |archive-date=20 December 2011 |language= Danish}} [Christian, Crown Prince of Denmark](/source/Christian%2C_Crown_Prince_of_Denmark) has been the [heir apparent](/source/heir_apparent) to the [Danish throne](/source/Danish_throne) since 14 January 2024, following the [abdication](/source/Abdication_of_Margrethe_II) of his grandmother, [Margrethe II](/source/Margrethe_II), and the ascension of his father, [King Frederik X](/source/King_Frederik_X).{{cite web|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/14/denmark-proclaims-king-frederik-queen-margrethe-abdicates|title=Denmark's King Frederik X takes throne after Margrethe abdicates|date=14 January 2024 |first1=Miranda |last1=Bryant |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227063256/https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jan/14/denmark-proclaims-king-frederik-queen-margrethe-abdicates |archive-date= Feb 27, 2024 }} ===Background=== The first law governing the succession to the Danish throne as a hereditary monarchy was the ''Kongeloven'' ({{langx|la|Lex Regia}}), enacted 14 November 1665, and published in 1709.{{cite web|url=http://www.ses.dk/399655f0 |title=Slots- og Ejendomsstyrelsen – Gråsten Palace and Palace Gardens – Gråsten Palace |url-status=dead |website=Palaces and Properties Agency |date=2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080610034826/http://www.ses.dk/399655f0 |archive-date=10 June 2008 }}{{cite web|url=http://www.statsministeriet.dk/_p_5483.html |title=''Kongeloven'' |work=Statsministeriet |date=4 September 1709 |access-date=21 November 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131003162858/http://www.statsministeriet.dk/_p_5483.html |archive-date=3 October 2013 }} It declared that the crown of Denmark shall descend by heredity to the legitimate descendants of [King Frederick III](/source/Frederick_III_of_Denmark), and that the [order of succession](/source/order_of_succession) shall follow [semi-Salic primogeniture](/source/agnatic-cognatic_primogeniture), according to which the crown is inherited by an heir, with preference among the Monarch's children to males over females; among siblings to the elder over the younger; and among Frederick III's remoter descendants by substitution, senior branches over junior branches. Female descendants were eligible to inherit the throne in the event there were no eligible surviving male dynasts born in the [male line](/source/patrilineality). As for the [duchies](/source/duke), [Holstein](/source/Holstein) and [Lauenburg](/source/Duchy_of_Saxe-Lauenburg) where the King ruled as duke, these lands adhered to [Salic law](/source/Salic_law) (meaning that only males could inherit the ducal throne), and by mutual agreement were permanently conjoined. The duchies of [Schleswig](/source/Schleswig) (a Danish [fief](/source/fief)), Holstein and Lauenburg (German fiefs) were joined in [personal union](/source/personal_union) with the Crown of Denmark. This difference caused problems when [Frederick VII of Denmark](/source/Frederick_VII_of_Denmark) proved childless, making a change in dynasty imminent, and causing the lines of succession for the duchies on one hand and for Denmark on the other to diverge. That meant that the new King of Denmark would not also be the new Duke of Schleswig or Duke of Holstein. To ensure the continued adhesion of the Elbe duchies to the Danish Crown, the line of succession to the duchies was modified in the [London Protocol](/source/London_Protocol_(1852)) of 1852, which designated [Prince Christian IX of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg](/source/Christian_IX_of_Denmark), as the new [heir apparent](/source/heir_apparent), although he was, strictly, the heir neither to the Crown of Denmark nor to the Duchies of Schleswig, Holstein or Lauenburg by primogeniture. Originally, the Danish prime minister [Christian Albrecht Bluhme](/source/Christian_Albrecht_Bluhme) wanted to keep the separate hereditary principles, but in the end the government decided on a uniform [agnatic primogeniture](/source/agnatic_primogeniture), which was accepted by the Parliament. This order of succession remained in effect for a hundred years, then the Salic law was changed to [male-preference primogeniture](/source/male-preference_primogeniture) in 1953, meaning that females could inherit, but only if they had no brothers. In 2009, the mode of inheritance of the throne was once more changed, this time into an [absolute primogeniture](/source/Cognatic). ===Privileges and restrictions=== [[File:Royal Standard of Denmark.svg|thumb|330px|right|[Royal Standard of Denmark](/source/List_of_flags_of_Denmark)]] {{Further|King's Law#Remaining articles still in force}}Following the transformation of Denmark's monarchy from [elective](/source/Elective_monarchy) (at least theoretically, although it had generally descended to the eldest son of the [House of Oldenburg](/source/House_of_Oldenburg) since 1448) to hereditary in 1660, the so-called ''Kongelov'' ({{langx|la|Lex Regia}}) established the right to rule "[by the grace of God](/source/by_the_grace_of_God)" for King [Frederick III](/source/Frederick_III_of_Denmark) and his posterity. Out of the articles in this law, all except for Article 21 and Article 25 have since been repealed. Article 21 states "No Prince of the Blood, who resides here in the Realm and in Our territory, shall marry, or leave the Country, or take service under foreign Masters, unless he receives Permission from the King". Under this provision, princes of Denmark who permanently reside in other realms by express permission of the Danish Crown (i.e. members of the dynasties of Greece, Norway and the United Kingdom) do not thereby forfeit their royalty in Denmark, nor are they bound to obtain prior permission to travel abroad or to marry from its sovereign, although since 1950 those not descended in male-line from King Christian IX are no longer in the line of succession to the Danish throne. However, those who do reside in Denmark or its territories continue to require the monarch's prior permission to travel abroad and to marry. Article 25 of the ''Kongelov'' stipulates, with respect to members of the Royal dynasty: "They should answer to no Magistrate Judges, but their first and last Judge shall be the King, or to whomsoever He decrees." Although all other articles of the ''Kongelov'' have been repealed by amendments to the Constitution in 1849, 1853 and 1953, these two articles have thus far been left intact. The Danish monarch holds the [fount of honour](/source/fount_of_honour) to bestow new titles of [nobility](/source/nobility) in Denmark. ==Residences== {{Main|List of Danish royal residences}} The royal [palace](/source/palace)s of Denmark became property of the state with the introduction of the [constitutional monarchy](/source/constitutional_monarchy) in 1849. Since then, a varying number of these have been put at the disposal of the monarchy. The agreement on which is renewed at the accession of every new monarch. ===Current residences=== ====Amalienborg Palace==== {{Main|Amalienborg Palace}} thumb|300px|right|Amalienborg Palace, the monarch's principal residence. The monarch has the use of the four palaces at [Amalienborg](/source/Amalienborg) in [Copenhagen](/source/Copenhagen) as a residence and work palace. These are arranged around an octagonal courtyard. Currently, Queen Margrethe resides in ''Christian IX's Palace'' and the King in ''Frederik VIII's Palace''. ''Christian VIII's Palace'' has apartments for other members of the royal family, whereas ''Christian VII's Palace'' is used for official events and to accommodate guests. Amalienborg was originally built in the 1750s by architect [Nicolai Eigtved](/source/Nicolai_Eigtved) for four noble families; however, when [Christiansborg Palace](/source/Christiansborg_Palace) burned in 1794, the royal family bought the palaces and moved in. The state rooms of Christian VIII's Palace and Christian VII's Palace may be visited by the public on guided tours. ====Christiansborg Palace==== {{Main|Christiansborg Palace}} thumb|Christiansborg Palace, site of many official functions of the monarchIn addition, parts of [Christiansborg Palace](/source/Christiansborg_Palace) in Copenhagen are also at the disposal of the monarch. It is the site of official functions such as [banquet](/source/banquet)s, [state dinner](/source/state_dinner)s, [diplomatic accreditation](/source/diplomatic_accreditation)s, [public audiences](/source/Audience_(meeting)), meetings of the [Council of State](/source/Danish_Council_of_State), receptions, royal christenings, [lyings-in-state](/source/lying-in-state) and other ceremonies. Also, [the Royal Stables](/source/the_Royal_Stables_(Denmark)) which provide the ceremonial transport by horse-drawn carriage for the royal family, are located here. The present building, the third with this name, is the last in a series of successive castles and palaces constructed on the same site since the erection of the first castle in 1167. The palace today bears witness to three eras of architecture, as the result of two serious fires in 1794 and in 1884. The main part of the current palace, finished in 1928, is in the historicist [Neo-Baroque style](/source/Neo-Baroque_style). The chapel dates to 1826 and is in a [Neoclassical style](/source/Neoclassical_style). The showgrounds were built 1738–46, in a [Baroque style](/source/Baroque_style). The royal parts of the palace are open to the public when not in use. ====Fredensborg Palace==== {{Main|Fredensborg Palace}} thumb|300px|right|Fredensborg Palace, spring and autumn residence of the monarch Another residence is [Fredensborg Palace](/source/Fredensborg_Palace) north of Copenhagen which is used principally in Spring and Autumn. It is often the site of state visits and ceremonial events in the royal family. The palace may be visited by the public on guided tours when not in use. ====Graasten Palace==== {{Main|Graasten Palace}} In [Jutland](/source/Jutland), [Graasten Palace](/source/Graasten_Palace) is at the disposal of the monarch. It was used as the summer residence of [King Frederik IX](/source/Frederik_IX_of_Denmark) and [Queen Ingrid](/source/Ingrid_of_Sweden). Since the death of Queen Ingrid in 2000, the Queen has stayed at Graasten for a yearly vacation in summer. ====Hermitage Hunting Lodge==== {{Main|Hermitage Hunting Lodge}} The [hunting lodge](/source/Hunting_lodge_(U.K.)) the [Eremitage Palace](/source/Eremitage_Palace) in the [Dyrehaven](/source/Dyrehaven) [deer park](/source/Deer_park_(England)) north of Copenhagen is used during royal [hunts](/source/hunting) in Dyrehaven. ====Sorgenfri Palace==== {{Main|Sorgenfri Palace}} Finally, [Sorgenfri Palace](/source/Sorgenfri_Palace) is at the disposal of the monarch. It was the residence of [Hereditary Prince Knud](/source/Prince_Knud_of_Denmark) and [Hereditary Princess Caroline Mathilde](/source/Princess_Caroline-Mathilde_of_Denmark) and is not in official use at all at this time. ====Marselisborg Palace==== {{Main|Marselisborg Palace}} Apart from these state-owned palaces, [Marselisborg Palace](/source/Marselisborg_Palace) in [Aarhus](/source/Aarhus) is privately owned by Queen Margrethe. It functions as the summer residence of Queen Margrethe, as well as during the Easter and Christmas holidays. ==Royal Family== {{Update section|date=January 2024|reason=In light of [recent events](/source/Abdication_of_Margrethe_II).}} {{Main|Danish royal family}} In the [Kingdom of Denmark](/source/Kingdom_of_Denmark) all members of the ruling dynasty who hold the title Prince or Princess of Denmark are said to be members of the Danish royal family. As with other European monarchies, distinguishing who is a member of the national royal family is difficult due to lack of strict legal or formal definition of who is or is not a member. The Queen and her siblings belong to the [House of Glücksburg](/source/House_of_Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Gl%C3%BCcksburg), a branch of the [House of Oldenburg](/source/House_of_Oldenburg). ===Main members=== [[File:Monarchy Of Denmark April 2010 royal family.jpg|300px|thumb|The [Royal Family of Denmark](/source/Danish_Royal_Family) during Queen Margrethe II's 70th birthday, 16 April 2010.]] The Danish royal family includes: * King [Frederik X](/source/Frederik_X) (The reigning Monarch) ** [Queen Mary of Denmark](/source/Queen_Mary_of_Denmark) (The Monarch's spouse) *** [Crown Prince Christian](/source/Christian%2C_Crown_Prince_of_Denmark) (The Crown Prince) *** [Princess Isabella](/source/Princess_Isabella_of_Denmark) (The Monarch's elder daughter) *** [Prince Vincent](/source/Prince_Vincent_of_Denmark) (The Monarch's younger son) *** [Princess Josephine](/source/Princess_Josephine_of_Denmark) (The Monarch's younger daughter){{cite news|url=http://www.kronprinsparret.dk/86d2774|title=A Prince and a Princess are born|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110111041058/http://www.kronprinsparret.dk/86d2774|archive-date=11 January 2011|df=dmy-all}} {{cite web|url=http://nyhederne.tv2.dk/live/kongeligetvillinger/|title=Kronprinsesse Mary har født|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110317074601/http://nyhederne.tv2.dk/live/kongeligetvillinger/|archive-date=17 March 2011|df=dmy-all}} *[Queen Margrethe II](/source/Queen_Margrethe_II) (The former reigning Monarch, The Monarch's mother) ** [Prince Joachim](/source/Prince_Joachim_of_Denmark) (The Monarch's younger brother) ** [Princess Marie](/source/Princess_Marie_of_Denmark) (Prince Joachim's second wife) *** [Count Nikolai](/source/Count_Nikolai_of_Monpezat) (Prince Joachim's eldest son) *** [Count Felix](/source/Count_Felix_of_Monpezat) (Prince Joachim's second son) ***[Count Henrik](/source/Count_Henrik_of_Monpezat) (Prince Joachim's youngest son) *** [Countess Athena](/source/Countess_Athena_of_Monpezat) (Prince Joachim's daughter) * [The Dowager Princess of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg](/source/Princess_Benedikte_of_Denmark) (''Princess Benedikte'', The King's aunt) * [The Dowager Queen of the Hellenes](/source/Queen_Anne-Marie_of_Greece) (''Queen Anne-Marie'', The King's aunt) ===Extended members=== The extended Danish royal family which includes people who do not hold the title of ''Prince'' or ''Princess of Denmark'', but have close connections to Queen Margrethe and sometimes attend Danish royal family functions, could be said to include: * [The Prince of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg](/source/Gustav%2C_7th_Prince_of_Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg) (''Prince Gustav'', Princess Benedikte's son) * [The Princess of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg](/source/Carina_Axelsson) (''Princess Carina'', Prince Gustav's wife) ** Prince Gustav Albrecht of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (Prince Gustav's son) ** Princess Mafalda of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg (Prince Gustav's daughter) * [Princess Alexandra of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg](/source/Princess_Alexandra_of_Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg) (Princess Benedikte's eldest daughter) * [Count Michael Ahlefeldt-Laurvig-Bille](/source/Michael_Ahlefeldt-Laurvig-Bille) (Princess Alexandra's husband) ** Count Richard von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth (Princess Alexandra's son) ** Countess Ingrid von Pfeil und Klein-Ellguth (Princess Alexandra's daughter) * [Princess Nathalie of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg](/source/Princess_Nathalie_of_Sayn-Wittgenstein-Berleburg) (Princess Benedikte's youngest daughter) ** Konstantin Johannsmann (Princess Nathalie's son) ** Louisa Johannsmann (Princess Nathalie's daughter) * [Count Ingolf of Rosenborg](/source/Count_Ingolf_of_Rosenborg) (cousin of Queen Margrethe) * Countess Sussie of Rosenborg (Count Ingolf's wife) * [Alexandra, Countess of Frederiksborg](/source/Alexandra%2C_Countess_of_Frederiksborg) (ex-wife of Prince Joachim, mother of Count Nikolai and Count Felix) ===Greek royal family=== {{main|Greek royal family}} Most members of the [Greek royal family](/source/Greek_royal_family) are members of the Danish royal family and bear the title of Prince or Princess of Greece and Denmark, as descendants of Christian IX of Denmark. Due to the [morganatic](/source/morganatic) status of her marriage, [Marina](/source/Marina_Karella), consort of [Prince Michael](/source/Prince_Michael_of_Greece_and_Denmark), and their children, Princesses Alexandra and [Olga](/source/Princess_Olga%2C_Duchess_of_Apulia), are exceptions. ==Style== [[Image:Danish Crown Regalia2.png|right|thumb|upright=1.4|The [Danish Crown Regalia](/source/Danish_Crown_Regalia), all of which are on public display at [Rosenborg Castle](/source/Rosenborg_Castle) in Copenhagen: 1. [Crown of](/source/Crown_of_Christian_V) [Christian IV](/source/Christian_IV) (1595); 2. Crown of [Christian V](/source/Christian_V) (1665–1670); 3. The Queen consort crown (1731); 4. Sceptre; 5. Sword of state; and, 6. Globus cruciger]] The monarchs of Denmark have a long history of royal and noble titles. Historically Danish monarchs also used the titles 'King of the Wends' and 'King of the Goths'. Upon her accession to the throne in 1972 Queen Margrethe II abandoned all titles except the title 'Queen of Denmark'. The kings and queens of Denmark are addressed as 'Your Majesty', whereas princes and princesses are referred to as ''His'' or ''Her Royal Highness'' (''Hans'' or ''Hendes Kongelige Højhed''), or ''His'' or ''Her Highness'' (''Hans'' or ''Hendes Højhed''). * [Eric of Pomerania](/source/Eric_of_Pomerania): ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [Sweden](/source/King_of_Sweden) and [Norway](/source/King_of_Norway), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Pomerania](/source/Duke_of_Pomerania)''. * [Christopher of Bavaria](/source/Christopher_of_Bavaria): ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [Sweden](/source/King_of_Sweden) and [Norway](/source/King_of_Norway), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Count Palatine of the Rhine](/source/Count_Palatine_of_the_Rhine), [Duke of Bavaria](/source/Duke_of_Bavaria)''. * The full title of the Danish sovereigns from [Christian I](/source/Christian_I_of_Denmark) to [Christian II](/source/Christian_II_of_Denmark) was: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [Sweden](/source/King_of_Sweden) and [Norway](/source/King_of_Norway), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn) and [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Count of Oldenburg](/source/Count_of_Oldenburg) and [Delmenhorst](/source/Count_of_Delmenhorst)''. * [Frederick I of Denmark](/source/Frederick_I_of_Denmark): ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn) and [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Count of Oldenburg](/source/Count_of_Oldenburg) and [Delmenhorst](/source/Count_of_Delmenhorst), [elected King of Norway](/source/King_of_Norway)''.{{citation | language = da | place = DK | url = http://www.gravsted.dk/person.php?navn=frederik1 | title = Frederik 1 | publisher = Gravsted}}.[http://www.snl.no/.nbl_biografi/Frederik_1/utdypning''Frederik 1 – utdypning'' (Store norske leksikon)] * The full title of the Danish sovereigns from [Christian III](/source/Christian_III_of_Denmark) to [Christian VII](/source/Christian_VII_of_Denmark) was: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark) and [Norway](/source/King_of_Norway), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn) and [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Count of Oldenburg](/source/Count_of_Oldenburg) and [Delmenhorst](/source/Count_of_Delmenhorst)''. * Oldenburg was elevated to a duchy during the reign of [Christian VII](/source/Christian_VII_of_Denmark), and the style was changed accordingly: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark) and [Norway](/source/King_of_Norway), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn), [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen) and [Oldenburg](/source/Duke_of_Oldenburg)''. This style was used until his son, Frederick VI, lost control of the Kingdom of Norway by the 1814 [Treaty of Kiel](/source/Treaty_of_Kiel). * Frederick VI gained control over Rügen 1814–1815 leading to the style: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Prince of Rügen](/source/Prince_of_R%C3%BCgen), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn), [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen) and [Oldenburg](/source/Duke_of_Oldenburg)''. * In 1815, Frederick VI relinquished Rügen in favour of the Prussian king, and instead gained the [Duchy of Lauenburg](/source/Duchy_of_Lauenburg) from the British-Hanoveran king leading to the style: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn), [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Lauenburg](/source/Duke_of_Lauenburg) and [Oldenburg](/source/Duke_of_Oldenburg)''. This style was used until 1918 when Iceland was elevated to an independent state in union with Denmark. * The full title of [Christian X](/source/Christian_X_of_Denmark) from 1918 to 1944: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [Iceland](/source/King_of_Iceland), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn), [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Lauenburg](/source/Duke_of_Lauenburg) and [Oldenburg](/source/Duke_of_Oldenburg)''. * The full title of Christian X following the 1944 dissolution of the Dano-Icelandic union: ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), [King of Denmark](/source/King_of_Denmark), [the Wends](/source/King_of_the_Wends) and [the Goths](/source/King_of_the_Goths), [Duke of Schleswig](/source/Duke_of_Schleswig), [Holstein](/source/Duke_of_Holstein), [Stormarn](/source/Duke_of_Stormarn), [Dithmarschen](/source/Duke_of_Dithmarschen), [Lauenburg](/source/Duke_of_Lauenburg) and [Oldenburg](/source/Duke_of_Oldenburg)''. The same style was used by his son, [Frederik IX](/source/Frederik_IX_of_Denmark), until his death in 1972 * When ascending the throne in 1972, [Margrethe II](/source/Margrethe_II_of_Denmark) abandoned all the monarch's traditional titles except the title to Denmark, hence her style ''[By the Grace of God](/source/By_the_Grace_of_God), Queen of Denmark''. * Upon ascending the throne in 2024, [Frederik X](/source/Frederik_X_of_Denmark) assumed the style ''By the Grace of God, King of Denmark, [Count of Monpezat](/source/Count_of_Monpezat)'', a title granted by Queen Margrethe II to all her male-line descendants in 2008. == See also == {{Portal|Monarchy|Denmark|Faroe Islands}} * [Danish Realm](/source/Danish_Realm) * [Throne Chair of Denmark](/source/Throne_Chair_of_Denmark) * [List of monarchs of Denmark](/source/List_of_monarchs_of_Denmark) * [Succession to the Danish throne](/source/Succession_to_the_Danish_throne) * [List of orders, decorations, and medals of the Kingdom of Denmark](/source/List_of_orders%2C_decorations%2C_and_medals_of_the_Kingdom_of_Denmark) * [Royal Life Guards (Denmark)](/source/Royal_Life_Guards_(Denmark)) * [Royal Stables (Denmark)](/source/Royal_Stables_(Denmark)) * [Roskilde Cathedral](/source/Roskilde_Cathedral) * [Danish colonial empire](/source/Danish_colonial_empire) * [Danish monarchs' family tree](/source/Danish_monarchs'_family_tree) * [Royal mottos of Danish monarchs](/source/Royal_mottos_of_Danish_monarchs) * [Kong Christian stod ved højen mast](/source/Kong_Christian_stod_ved_h%C3%B8jen_mast) * [Royal Danish Ceremonial Car "Store Krone"](/source/Royal_Danish_Ceremonial_Car_%22Store_Krone%22) * [Primogenitor](/source/Progenitor) ==References== {{reflist|30em}} ==External links== * {{official website|https://www.kongehuset.dk/en/}} of the Danish monarchy {{Denmark topics}} {{American monarchies}} {{Heads of state and government of Europe}} {{Europe topic|prefix=Monarchy of}} {{Heads of state of the European Union member states}} {{Monarchies}} {{DEFAULTSORT:Monarchy Of Denmark}} Category:Monarchy of Denmark Category:Government of Denmark Category:Government of Greenland Category:Government of the Faroe Islands --- Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Monarchy of Denmark](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarchy_of_Denmark) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarchy_of_Denmark?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.