Jimmy Carter kisses Queen Mother on the lips and shatters royal protocol
- During his visit to Buckingham Palace in May 1977, Jimmy Carter greeted Queen Mother Elizabeth Bowes Lyon with a kiss on the lips.
- This act broke established royal protocol, which typically involves a bow or handshake.
- The encounter highlights the cultural differences between American and British customs and remains a memorable moment in Carter's presidency.
In May 1977, former US President Jimmy Carter was invited to Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth II ahead of a NATO summit. This visit marked a significant event in American-British relations, showcasing Carter's distinctive approach which contrasted with royal protocols. During his stay, he greeted Queen Mother Elizabeth Bowes Lyon with a kiss on the lips, a gesture that was shocking as such behavior had not occurred with her since the death of her husband, King George VI, in 1952. Despite being rooted in his Southern hospitality, the Queen Mother was not pleased with this breach of etiquette, as it was customary for men to either bow their heads or shake hands with members of the Royal Family. Following the kiss, she remarked on her failed attempt to avoid the encounter, indicating her discomfort and surprise. This unexpected kiss led to a notable historical moment, illustrating the cultural differences between American and British customs. Carter's actions not only made headlines but also highlighted the more relaxed demeanor he maintained throughout his presidency, often rejecting formalities that his predecessors adhered to. The incident remains a memorable part of Carter's legacy, showcasing both the informal nature of his presidency and the challenges posed when interacting with royal traditions. The Queen Mother later documented her feelings about the encounter, marking it as an event she did not appreciate, and ultimately, this interaction signified a unique episode in the history of US-British relations.