Why Can Megan Markle Have Title When Not British Citizen

Why Can Meghan Markle Have a Title When Not a British Citizen?

In recent years, the British royal family has been a topic of great interest and public scrutiny, especially with the inclusion of individuals who were not born royal. One such example is Meghan Markle, the former actress who married into the royal family in 2018 by marrying Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex. Many have wondered how Meghan Markle managed to acquire a royal title, such as the Duchess of Sussex, despite not being a British citizen. In this blog post, we will delve into the historic origins of royal titles, the situation surrounding Meghan Markle's title, and shed light on frequently asked questions on this topic.

Historic Origins of Royal Titles

The practice of bestowing titles upon members of royal families has existed for centuries and is deeply rooted in tradition, history, and the monarchy's role within society. Titles like Duke, Duchess, Earl, and Countess are part of a complex system that historically recognized the various ranks and positions within the royal family. These titles often come with certain privileges, responsibilities, and duties, both ceremonial and administrative.

Meghan Markle's Title as the Duchess of Sussex

Meghan Markle's acquisition of the title "Duchess of Sussex" primarily stems from her marriage to Prince Harry, who is the son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana. The title itself is one of several dukedoms in the United Kingdom and has been associated with British royalty since its creation in the early 18th century.

It's important to understand that royal titles are not solely determined by citizenship or nationality. Instead, they are granted by the reigning monarch, in this case, Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen has the authority to confer titles upon members of her family, regardless of their citizenship status. Therefore, Meghan Markle's American citizenship does not preclude her from receiving a title as it is ultimately at the discretion of the monarch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it common for non-British citizens to receive British royal titles?
No, it is not common, but it has happened in the past. The most notable example before Meghan Markle was Wallis Simpson, an American woman who married King Edward VIII but was denied the title of "Her Royal Highness" due to political and personal reasons. However, she was granted the title Duchess of Windsor.

2. Can Meghan Markle use her title after stepping back from royal duties?
Following the decision of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to step back as senior members of the royal family, an agreement was reached that they would no longer actively use their HRH (His/Her Royal Highness) titles. However, Meghan continues to retain her Duchess of Sussex title and is occasionally referred to by it, but it is not used in an official capacity.

3. Can Meghan Markle pass on her title to her children?
Yes, royal titles can be inherited and passed down through generations. Therefore, if Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's children choose to use their titles, they have the option to do so.

In conclusion, Meghan Markle's title as the Duchess of Sussex is a result of her marriage to Prince Harry and the authority of Queen Elizabeth II to bestow titles upon members of her family. The acquisition of a royal title is not dependent on citizenship or nationality but rather on the prerogative of the reigning monarch. It is important to understand the nuances of the British monarchy and its traditions to gain a comprehensive understanding of Meghan Markle's title and its significance.

FAQ:

Q: Can Meghan Markle be stripped of her title?
A: The decision to strip a person of a royal title lies within the discretion of the reigning monarch. While it is possible, it is unlikely given that the title was granted by Queen Elizabeth II and there have been no indications of such action being taken.

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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