A Royal Conundrum: The Race for Lilibet’s Title

Six-year-old Charlotte, known as Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte of Cambridge, may be in line to take on a significant title currently held by Princess Anne once the current Duke of Cambridge ascends the throne.

The Royal Family's social media team recently shed light on the history behind this prestigious title, shedding light on the tradition surrounding its bestowal.

In a tweet dating back to August 2020, the Royal Family explained that the title of HRH The Princess Anne was designated as the Princess Royal in 1987, a tradition typically reserved for the eldest daughter of the monarch.

The title has a rich history, with Princess Anne being the seventh Princess Royal, following in the footsteps of Princess Mary, the only daughter of King George V.

Despite being the eldest daughter of King George VI, Princess Elizabeth did not inherit the title before ascending to the throne in 1952.

This was due to her aunt, Princess Mary, still holding the title at the time.

Similarly, if Princess Anne retains the title when William becomes King, Charlotte may not be eligible to receive it, even if it becomes vacant.

The process of bestowing the title is not automatic, as seen when Queen Elizabeth II granted Princess Anne the title in 1987, despite it remaining vacant since the passing of Princess Mary in 1965.

The title's origins trace back to 1642 when Princess Mary, daughter of Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria, was first bestowed with it, inspired by French royal customs.

In recent news, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle privately greeted Kate Middleton on her 40th birthday on January 9.

While members of the British Royal Family typically extend birthday wishes online, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex opted for a more intimate celebration due to their inactive social media presence.

Renowned author Christopher Anderson revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle connected with Kate Middleton through a video call, maintaining a discreet approach compared to previous public displays of affection.

The Royal Family refrained from sharing details of Middleton's birthday celebration, focusing instead on releasing a series of portraits for her 48th birthday.

Middleton celebrated with close friends and family at Anmer Hall, embracing a low-key affair in line with her upcoming Platinum Jubilee celebrations alongside Queen Elizabeth II.

Anderson hinted at joint birthday festivities for Prince William and the Queen, emphasizing the potential for grand celebrations if circumstances allow.

Looking ahead, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are anticipated to participate in the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in June, potentially coinciding with Prince William's birthday.

Their return to the UK could mark a significant reunion within the royal family, adding another layer of intrigue to the ongoing royal dynamics.