President Emmanuel Macron of France responded to a joke made by King Charles during a White House dinner, initiating a playful exchange between the two leaders.

King Charles's Remark & Macron's Response

King Charles quipped that without Britain, the US would be speaking French. This remark referenced Britain’s victory over France in the Seven Years’ War, a conflict that significantly altered the power dynamics in North America.

Macron responded on social media in English, stating, “That would be chic!” The Élysée Palace added, “If ever… See you at the Francophonie Summit.”

Historical Context of the Exchange

The exchange carries a historical weight, alluding to Britain’s decisive win over France in the Seven Years’ War. At the time, France controlled vast territories in North America, known as ‘New France’, while Britain sought colonial dominance.

The Seven Years’ War, fought across multiple continents, ultimately resulted in Britain’s naval supremacy and control over key territories. France ceded almost all of its North American holdings to Britain with the Treaty of Paris.

Later, Napoleon regained control of Louisiana before selling it to the United States in 1803 through the Louisiana Purchase.

Trump & Royal Protocol

This exchange followed a visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla to the White House, hosted by Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump. During the reception, Trump appeared to breach royal protocol by touching King Charles on the shoulder.

Body language expert Judi James noted that the touch appeared to be a “more political gesture,” as it is generally considered improper to initiate physical contact with a royal.

Security Concerns

The lighthearted exchange occurred against a backdrop of increased security concerns, following an incident where a gunman attempted to breach the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner on Saturday evening.