Here’s an interesting royal twist: While Princess Charlotte is indeed a princess, there’s a good chance her children might not carry the title of His or Her Royal Highness. In a recent interview with Town & Country, royal expert Lucy Hume dives deep into the reasons behind this fascinating royal tradition. So, let’s break it down in a way that’s as engaging as a good chat with a friend.
How Titles Work in the Royal Family
Lucy Hume, the associate director of publishing and etiquette at Debrett’s, explains that royal titles are primarily passed down through the male line. This means if Princess Charlotte becomes a mom, her kids won’t automatically be bestowed with the titles of HRH, Prince, or Princess. To put it into perspective, consider Beatrice and Eugenie, the daughters of Prince Andrew—they are princesses. However, Zara and Peter Phillips, the children of Princess Anne, don’t hold royal titles. This discrepancy highlights how the rules of royal inheritance can get a bit tricky.
Monarch’s Discretion: The Power to Bestow Titles
But here’s the kicker: while the rules lean heavily on the male line, the reigning monarch has the ultimate authority to grant titles to the children of royal daughters. Lucy elaborates, “The monarch may offer to bestow a royal title upon his or her daughter’s children.” A prime example of this is Queen Elizabeth II's offer to Peter and Zara Phillips when they were born. Interestingly, Princess Anne and Captain Phillips decided to decline this royal offer, giving their kids a more private, non-royal lifestyle.
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Charlotte's Place in Line: A Secure Spot Regardless of Titles
While Princess Charlotte’s kids might not have a shot at royal titles, the two-year-old’s spot in the line of succession is firmly secured. Thanks to a law change in 2013, before the birth of Prince George, male members of the royal family no longer take precedence over females in the line of succession. So, even if Kate Middleton, who is expecting her third child with Prince William, gives birth to another boy, it won’t bump Charlotte down the list. Isn’t that a refreshing change?
Kate, 35, gave us a sweet reminder of the newest royal on the way when she showed off her baby bump at a Buckingham Palace event celebrating World Mental Health Day on October 10. Despite previously dealing with a severe form of morning sickness, it seems the soon-to-be mom is feeling much better now.
This event marked her first public appearance since announcing her pregnancy in early September. According to People, a palace aide shared, “The Duchess’ condition is improving but she is still suffering from Hyperemesis Gravidarum. She is delighted to be here tonight.” It’s heartwarming to see Kate back in action, isn’t it?
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