**List of Trooping the Colour by Event from 1890**
**Definition**
The Trooping the Colour is a ceremonial event performed by regiments of the British Army, marking the official birthday of the British sovereign. This article provides a comprehensive list of Trooping the Colour ceremonies by year and notable events from 1890 onwards.
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## Introduction
Trooping the Colour is a traditional military ceremony that dates back to the 17th century, symbolizing the formal presentation of a regiment’s flag (or „colour”) to its soldiers. It has evolved into a grand annual event held in London to celebrate the official birthday of the reigning monarch. Since 1890, the ceremony has been held almost every year, with variations reflecting historical events, changes in monarchy, and adaptations in military protocol.
This article catalogs the Trooping the Colour ceremonies from 1890 to the present, highlighting significant occurrences, changes in venue, participating regiments, and notable royal attendance.
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## Historical Background
The origins of Trooping the Colour lie in the practical need for soldiers to recognize their regimental colours on the battlefield. The ceremony involves the parade of a regiment’s colour through the ranks, allowing soldiers to recognize their flag by sight and touch. Over time, it became a formalized event symbolizing loyalty and military discipline.
By the late 19th century, Trooping the Colour had become an established annual event marking the sovereign’s official birthday, typically held in June. The ceremony is traditionally performed by one of the Foot Guards regiments of the Household Division.
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## Trooping the Colour: Overview of the Ceremony
The ceremony involves a parade of several thousand soldiers, horse guards, and musicians, culminating in the „trooping” or carrying of the colour through the ranks. It is accompanied by a royal review, fly-past by the Royal Air Force, and a public display of military precision and pageantry.
The event is usually held on Horse Guards Parade in London, with the monarch inspecting the troops and taking the salute. The ceremony is a key part of British state occasions and is attended by members of the Royal Family, government officials, and the public.
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## List of Trooping the Colour by Event from 1890
### 1890–1910: Victorian and Edwardian Era
– **1890**: Trooping the Colour held on 21 June, under Queen Victoria’s reign. The event was marked by the participation of the Foot Guards and the Household Cavalry on Horse Guards Parade.
– **1897**: Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria; the ceremony was part of extended celebrations, with increased public attendance and military display.
– **1901**: Following Queen Victoria’s death, the first Trooping the Colour under King Edward VII took place, maintaining traditional format.
– **1910**: Last Trooping the Colour under King Edward VII before his death in May; the event continued to be a symbol of imperial pride.
### 1911–1936: Reign of King George V
– **1911**: Trooping the Colour incorporated into the coronation celebrations of King George V.
– **1914–1918**: World War I caused disruptions; the ceremony was scaled back or suspended during wartime.
– **1920**: Resumption of full Trooping the Colour ceremonies post-war, symbolizing national recovery.
– **1935**: Silver Jubilee of King George V; the ceremony featured enhanced military displays and royal participation.
### 1937–1952: Reign of King George VI
– **1937**: Trooping the Colour held as part of King George VI’s coronation celebrations.
– **1939–1945**: World War II led to suspension of the public ceremony; limited or no Trooping the Colour events were held.
– **1946**: Resumption of the ceremony post-war, symbolizing national resilience.
– **1952**: Last Trooping the Colour under King George VI before his death in February.
### 1952–2022: Reign of Queen Elizabeth II
– **1952**: First Trooping the Colour under Queen Elizabeth II, held on 11 June.
– **1953**: Ceremony incorporated into the coronation celebrations.
– **1977**: Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II; the event was marked by expanded military participation and public festivities.
– **2012**: Diamond Jubilee; Trooping the Colour featured special commemorations and increased public engagement.
– **2020**: Ceremony held in a significantly scaled-down format due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with no public attendance and limited military personnel.
– **2022**: Platinum Jubilee; the ceremony included special tributes and was one of the last public appearances of Queen Elizabeth II before her death in September.
### 2023–Present: Reign of King Charles III
– **2023**: First Trooping the Colour under King Charles III, held on 17 June. The event marked a new era while maintaining traditional elements.
– **2024**: Scheduled Trooping the Colour continues as a key ceremonial event, reflecting ongoing royal and military traditions.
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## Notable Changes and Adaptations
### Venue and Format
While Horse Guards Parade in London has been the traditional venue since the 19th century, there have been occasional changes due to weather, security, or special circumstances. The format has evolved to include modern military units and technology, such as the Royal Air Force fly-past.
### Participation of the Royal Family
The monarch traditionally takes the salute and inspects the troops. Other members of the Royal Family often participate, riding in carriages or on horseback. The event serves as a public display of royal presence and continuity.
### Impact of Wars and National Crises
Both World Wars led to suspension or modification of the ceremony. The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 resulted in a unique, scaled-down event without public spectators, demonstrating adaptability to contemporary challenges.
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## Regiments Involved
The Trooping the Colour is primarily performed by one of the five Foot Guards regiments:
– Grenadier Guards
– Coldstream Guards
– Scots Guards
– Irish Guards
– Welsh Guards
Each regiment takes its turn in trooping its colour, maintaining a rotation that reflects regimental history and seniority.
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## Cultural and Public Significance
Trooping the Colour is a major event in the British ceremonial calendar, attracting thousands of spectators and broadcast worldwide. It symbolizes national pride, military tradition, and the continuity of the monarchy. The event also serves as a public holiday celebration, reinforcing the connection between the armed forces and the public.
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## Conclusion
Since 1890, Trooping the Colour has remained a vital ceremonial tradition in the United Kingdom, adapting to historical changes while preserving its core military and royal significance. The annual event continues to honor the sovereign’s official birthday and showcase the discipline and heritage of the British Army.
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**Meta Description**
A detailed list and overview of Trooping the Colour ceremonies from 1890, highlighting key events, royal participation, and historical changes in this iconic British military tradition.