The Elizabethan age is over – here's what the years of King Charles' reign will be known as

When Queen Elizabeth II died at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Thursday, it marked the end of the 70-year Elizabethan age and the dawn of a new era.

Periods in British history are often referred to using the name of the monarch on the throne at that time – so with King Charles III at the helm, the era's name has changed.

The term that will be used is the "Carolean age", one which British Prime Minister Liz Truss noted in her House of Commons tribute to the Queen.

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The phrase has been used previously for the two Charles' that came before the current king; Charles II from 1660 to 1685, and Charles I who ruled from 1625 until 1649.

The term Carolean originates from the Latin name for Charles, Carolus.

This new era marks the first time in over 200 years that a monarch with the name Charles has sat on the throne.

The two before the current monarch had particularly dark histories; Charles I was publicly tried and executed for treason, while Charles II's reign was at the same time as the plague and the Great Fire of London.

King Charles III was officially announced as the monarch during a historic proclamation ceremony at St James's Palace in London on Saturday morning.

The Accession Council – made up of Privy Counsellors – was the first event in a 10-day period of mourning the Queen with a new King. It took place two days after the monarch died at age 96.

King Charles paid tribute to his late mother in his declaration, where he said: "I know how deeply you, the entire Nation, and I think I may say the whole world, sympathises with me in the irreparable loss we have all suffered.

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"It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my Sister and Brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss."

He then spoke about the responsibilities of his new role, adding: "I am deeply aware of this great inheritance and of the duties and heavy responsibilities of Sovereignty which have now passed to me.

"In taking up these responsibilities, I shall strive to follow the inspiring example I have been set in upholding constitutional government and to seek the peace, harmony and prosperity of the peoples of these Islands and of the Commonwealth Realms and Territories throughout the world."

He concluded: "In carrying out the heavy task that has been laid upon me, and to which I now dedicate what remains to me of my life, I pray for the guidance and help of Almighty God."

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