Carter's Kiss To Trump's Step Ahead: Presidential Gaffes Toward UK Royals
Maybe it was nerves from being in the presence of royalty or perhaps it was a simple mistake, but there have been quite a few gaffes by US presidents and first ladies toward members of the British royal family over the years.
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- From: India News Bull
Washington:
The presence of royalty can sometimes cause even the most composed world leaders to commit social blunders. Throughout history, several US presidents and first ladies have had awkward interactions with members of the British royal family that became memorable diplomatic incidents.
As President Donald Trump prepares for his upcoming state visit with King Charles III in England, let's revisit some notable protocol missteps, including one involving Trump himself:
During a 1977 summit dinner at Buckingham Palace, President Jimmy Carter, who hailed from Georgia with his strong Southern background, created quite a stir. While posing for photographs with royal family members, rumors circulated that he kissed the Queen Mother directly on the lips during their greeting.
Though Carter later clarified he had merely kissed her cheek, British tabloids continued reporting the alleged breach of protocol for years afterward.
In 2007, President George W. Bush welcomed Queen Elizabeth II to the White House with a speech that contained an unfortunate error regarding her age. Bush stated, "You helped our nation celebrate its bicentennial in 17... in 1976," prompting laughter from the audience.
Bush then exchanged a humorous glance with the queen, later describing her reaction: "She gave me a look that only a mother could give a child."
First Lady Michelle Obama broke royal protocol during a 2009 visit when she placed her hand on Queen Elizabeth II's back. Traditionally, the queen is not to be touched until she initiates contact. Interestingly, the queen responded by reciprocating the gesture, placing her own hand on Mrs. Obama's back.
President Barack Obama experienced an awkward moment during a 2011 dinner at Buckingham Palace when the orchestra unexpectedly began playing "God Save the Queen" in the middle of his toast. Rather than pausing, Obama continued speaking through the anthem.
When he finished his toast, the queen respectfully waited for the national anthem to conclude before raising her glass.
During Trump's 2018 visit to Windsor Castle while inspecting the Guard of Honor with Queen Elizabeth II, he stepped ahead of the monarch and directly blocked her path. This violated British royal protocol, which dictates that the monarch should always lead the way.