Thank you for downloading this episode of A History of the World in 100 Objects
from BBC Radio 4.
In 1947, on her 21st birthday, the future Queen made a heartfelt speech
dedicating her adult life to the service of her people.
She did it in a BBC radio broadcast from South Africa.
There is a motto which has been borne by many of my ancestors, a noble motto, "I serve."
Those words were an inspiration to many bygone heirs to the throne
when they made their knightly dedication as they came to manhood.
As she went on to point out in her speech,
none of her forebears could have spoken so directly to their subjects.
She and other rulers now have a huge range of mediums for their messages.
But without any of these modern communication tools,
how did rulers reach out and speak to their people,
and tell them of their commitment to their welfare?
2,000 years ago, the Indian emperor, Ashoka the Great, carved his messages in stone.
He is associated with the unity of India
as one of the first emperors ruling all over the land, the entire land.
It really puts at its heart the welfare, the happiness, and the harmony of the people.
A History of the World in 100 Objects.
Pillar of Ashoka.