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Presidential Blunders: A Comedic History with Royals

9/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. presidents and first ladies have made notable gaffes with the British royal family.
In 1977, President Jimmy Carter allegedly kissed the Queen Mother on the lips, despite claiming it was a cheek kiss.
President George W. Bush humorously misrepresented Queen Elizabeth II's age in a 2007 speech.
First lady Michelle Obama touched Queen Elizabeth II in 2009, breaking protocol, but the queen reciprocated.
President Barack Obama continued his toast during "God Save the Queen" at a 2011 dinner.
In 2018, President Trump stepped into Queen Elizabeth II's path, breaching British hierarchy.

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Story summary

U.S. presidents and first ladies have made notable gaffes with the British royal family.
In 1977, President Jimmy Carter allegedly kissed the Queen Mother on the lips, despite claiming it was a cheek kiss.
President George W. Bush humorously misrepresented Queen Elizabeth II's age in a 2007 speech.
First lady Michelle Obama touched Queen Elizabeth II in 2009, breaking protocol, but the queen reciprocated.
President Barack Obama continued his toast during "God Save the Queen" at a 2011 dinner.
In 2018, President Trump stepped into Queen Elizabeth II's path, breaching British hierarchy.