Gates buys himself a new present: UK knighthood

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Author: Chris Preimesberger

Long, long ago, in the good old days of the kingdom, only truly distinguished citizens — such as military heroes, respected public servants, and best-selling authors — were honored for lifetimes of achievement by being dubbed Knights of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire.

Lately, though, the UK has taken to dubbing rock stars, such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, and Mick Jagger to this singular honor. Fine with me. They’re well-loved, loyal British subjects, they’ve represented their homeland well, brought in a lot of tax revenue to their homeland, spread a lot of good will, and they’ve done a lot of good for society in general, I suppose. They’ve earned their Sirs.

But now the Brits have reached out to Microsoft Emperor Bill Gates, of all people. He shan’t be called “Sir,” though — that is reserved only for British subjects. Still, what the heck is the House of Windsor thinking?