A Constitutional Monarchy: What North America Would Look Like If the American Revolution Had Failed

In the event that the American Revolution had failed, North America as we know it today would drastically differ from its current state. This alternate scenario would have led to the United States adopting a constitutional monarchy system, similar to that of Canada, Great Britain, Australia, or New Zealand. Instead of the prominent stars and stripes that make up the current American flag, a different design would take its place, often incorporating elements of the British royal coat of arms and 50 stars or 13 stars to represent the original colonies.

Head of State and Government Structure

The head of state in this scenario would be a Monarch, with Queen Elizabeth II (1952–2022) being a likely candidate based on historical timelines. This transition to a constitutional monarchy would maintain principles of representative government, the rule of law, and parliamentary democracy, but with a hereditary Monarch as the ceremonial head of state, similar to that of Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.

Transportation Infrastructure

The interstate highway system, a cornerstone of American infrastructure, would also undergo significant changes. The current shield-shaped American highway markers would be replaced with a more regal appearance, incorporating a royal crown. This crown would be placed prominently on the markers, making them more visually striking and fitting for a constitutional monarchy.

Measurement Systems and Transportation Signs

Another significant shift would be the adoption of the metric system for measurements and signs, similar to that of Canada and some states in the U.S. Such changes would include speed limit signs, such as those seen in Canada, which display meters per hour (m/h) instead of miles per hour (mph). This would bring the United States in line with global standards and improve consistency across different regions, especially in border states.

State Flags and Symbols

The state flags would undergo a transformation as well, reflecting a constitutional monarchy system. For instance, the flag of New York, a state I call home, would have a design that incorporates the Union Jack in the canton. This flag could feature a blue background with 7 red and 6 white horizontal stripes, symbolizing the 13 original colonies, and a golden or orange-colored portion below symbolizing the state’s historical roots. Additionally, the state’s seal could be placed in the center.

ImagiNation Through Visuals

Visually, imagine the following designs for American state and provincial flags:

A flag with the union jack in its canton, featuring a blue background, 7 red stripes and 6 white stripes, representing the 13 original colonies. A flag with a half of the Union Jack on its top half and a flower in the center, with an orange background in the bottom half. A flag resembling New York State’s current flag, but with the Union Jack in the canton, 7 red stripes, and 6 white stripes on a blue background, and the state seal centered.

Conclusion

The scenario of a constitutional monarchy in North America challenges us to imagine how different our nation would be today. The changes in governance, transportation infrastructure, and state symbolism underscore the significant impact that historical outcomes can have on the present and future. Reflecting on these changes can provide valuable insights into the importance of the American Revolution and the evolution of our nation's identity.