In the last episode we met 7 living former monarchs who chose to retire, hand their thrones to their children and enjoy their golden years. But not all living former monarchs chose to get off the throne, some were pushed off. In the 20th century, 28 national-level monarchies across the world were abolished. Their former sovereigns were downgraded, exiled or even executed. As the majority of these revolutions and coups happened in the first half of the century, few ex monarchs are still alive today. Their children and grandchildren carry on defunct royal dynastic lines and, if they’re lucky, enjoy what’s left of their ancestors’ glory, palaces, and fortunes. Today there are only 4 living former monarchs who lost their thrones when their monarchies were abolished. All of their reigns ended and one began in bloodshed. And one managed to return to his former Kingdom and be democratically elected Prime minister. Let’s meet them!

Jamshid bin Abdullah, Former Sultan of Zanzibar

Simeon II, Former Tsar of Bulgaria

Gyanendra, Former King of Nepal

Fuad II, Former King of Egypt and the Sudan

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Intro Music: Baroque Coffee House by Doug Maxwell

Music: 'Dream of the Ancestors' by Asher Fulero

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