Thanks Che.
I am one of those that supports the Royals. For good or ill. Queen Elizabeth is ruddy good at her job and we may have to pass through one or two less able before we find another.
See, the thing for me, I have to admit, is as much about race, blood and kin as it is anything to do with legal authority. That family, to people of my background, represents a physical tie to something very ancient. That's what deBrett's peerage is about. I am no aristocrat but that family and my families, like most families in the UK have intertwined histories. In many ways, to me they represent a living version of Stonehenge - they probably wouldn't be thrilled by the comparison - but they are a touchstone. For me.
To others they represent other things, much like any work of art or institution, it is in the eye of the beholder. I can understand why many Canadians, especially recent immigrants don't find a reason for the connection. But to about half the population there is at least some form of connection and not all of it has to do with race. I have run across monarchists amongst many non-Brits.
As to your comment about public perception of the Royals - "Georgie Porgie Puddin' and Pie, Kissed the girls and made them cry", an English nursery rhyme, was composed in "honour" of an arrogant, fat, rake of an individual who took advantage of his position to secure more than his fair share of good times and forgot to leave appropriate tips. The public didn't think much of him when he was Prince of Wales, a position he held for far too long under an long-lived father. He became George IV and was quite well liked as a King. Edward VII was much the same.
Henry VIII and Bloody Mary had very few redeeming qualities.
Royals come and go, good and bad, but like Stonehenge, the line endures. For some of us that is probably all that is necessary.
I would be quite happy with Canada a member of the Commonwealth of which QE is head while we have our own Elected Governor-General.
The secret with tradition is to maintain the ties to history while at the same time adjusting to the realities of today.
Cheers.
History is personal. They put real people into history and supply a personal tie to historical events.