Not everyone had the same opportunities to know better afforded by a world-class education and extensive travel abroad. Not everyone continued to say these "regrettable" things well into the 21st century. Not everyone was aware that they had a platform by which their words might have an amplified effect.

Judging the past by contemporary politics doesn't make much sense. The present and the past are separate contexts.

I agree.

> Not everyone continued to say these "regrettable" things well into the 21st century.

Just a short sampling, mostly from before 2000 although more can be found in other articles: https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2017/may/04/prince-phili...

However, judging recent history by contemporary politics absolutely makes sense