Two different expressions for a same event (death) of some world Leader - Why and what would be the difference?

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Wheelspanner

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Recently when the former Soviet Union leader Gorbachev died the heading on websites was "Former Soviet leader Gorbachev dies".
When the Queen Elizebeth passed away yesterday, the heading on a website is " Queen Elizebeth II has died".
What is the reason for this difference? Is the former an expression of contempt (or less respectful) and the latter is one with respect? What is the weightage difference?
 

emsr2d2

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There's no difference in respect or tone. It's simply stylistic.
 

jutfrank

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I feel there is something of a difference in that the present simple is somewhat more objective, expressed just as a simple matter of fact. The present perfect by contrast works as a more personal way of bringing news to the people. If you were to relate this message in everyday speech, only the present perfect form would work. The present simple version has a more journalistic/historical register.
 
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