Queens University is called Queens University because it was named in honor of Queen Victoria, the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom at the time of its founding.
The Royal Connection
Established in 1841 through a Royal Charter issued by Queen Victoria herself, the university's name directly pays homage to her sovereignty. At its inception, Queen Victoria was a young monarch, only 22 years old, and had been on the throne for just four years of her extensive reign.
Historical Naming Conventions
The tradition of naming educational institutions after reigning monarchs was a prevalent practice during this historical period. This custom served to demonstrate loyalty to the Crown and to elevate the institution's standing by associating it with royal authority.
The naming choice for Queen's University was likely influenced by other prominent institutions of the era. Notably, King's College, founded in 1827 and later becoming the University of Toronto, had been named after King George IV. This historical precedent provided a model, inspiring the founders of Queen's to similarly honor their monarch, Queen Victoria, and thereby establishing a parallel in prestige and nomenclature.
Key Aspects of the Naming Origin:
- Honoring Queen Victoria: The university was directly named after the sovereign reigning at the time of its foundation.
- Royal Charter: Its establishment was solidified by a Royal Charter, underlining its official connection to the British Crown.
- Period Context: The naming reflects a common historical practice of honoring monarchs in institutional titles.
- Precedent from Rivals: The naming may have been inspired by King's College (now University of Toronto), which was similarly named after King George IV.
Thus, the name "Queens University" stands as a significant symbol of its historical origins and its enduring ties to the British monarchical system from the colonial era.
