Why Meghan Markle is called Princess of the United Kingdom on Archie's birth certificate
On Friday, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor’s official birth certificate was released. The newborn royal’s parents are both listed on the document — Rachel Meghan Markle and His Royal Highness Henry Charles Albert David Duke of Sussex — as well as their occupations. It’s Meghan’s job, noted as “Princess of the United Kingdom,” that has people scratching their heads.
While Prince Harry has officially held the title of“Prince Henry of Wales” since his birth (although he’s gone by “Duke of Sussex” since his wedding), Meghan, who’s been called “Meghan, Duchess of Sussex” since her marriage on May 19, 2018, has never officially been referred to as Princess Meghan.
However, as the wife of Prince Harry, Meghan is entitled to use the female equivalent to his title – therefore she can go by Her Royal Highness Princess Henry of Wales.
However, much like her sister-in-law the Duchess of Cambridge, Meghan goes by her duchess title.
Although it has never been confirmed by the royal family, it’s believed the Princess of Wales title is not used because of its link to Diana, Princess of Wales, who died tragically in a car crash in 1997.
It is likely this is why Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, the second wife of Prince Charles, does not use the princess title either.
Neither the Duchess of Cambridge nor the Duchess of Sussex will be able to go by the title “Princess Catherine” or “Princess Meghan” in their own right. This is a privilege reserved by those of royal birth, such as Prince Harry’s cousins, Princess Eugenie and Princess Beatrice.
Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:
Kate Middleton and Prince William have reportedly met new nephew Archie
Prince Harry wears 'Daddy' jacket back at work just days after son's birth
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