The royal family’s naming conventions have long been a topic of fascination and debate, with the surnames of Prince William and Prince Harry drawing particular attention. Before their marriages, the royal brothers used the surname “Wales” as a nod to their father, King Charles III, who was the Prince of Wales at the time. This tradition reflects how members of the royal family often adopt surnames based on the official titles of their parents until they receive their own royal titles.
The Use of Surnames: A Reflection of Royal Traditions
In a 2009 photo from their time in the U.K. military, Prince William and Prince Harry can be seen wearing their green uniforms with name tags that read “Harry Wales” and “William Wales.” However, their names underwent changes as they received new titles through marriage and other royal transitions.
Prince William, who became the Duke of Cambridge when he married Kate Middleton, temporarily adopted the surname “Cambridge.” But in 2022, following his father’s ascension to the throne, William returned to using the Wales surname as his father passed on the title of Prince of Wales to him. This change also affected William and Kate’s children, who now use the surname Wales.
Similarly, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, upon their marriage in 2018, became the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Despite the couple’s decision to step back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan has expressed her intention to keep her title as Meghan, Duchess of Sussex. She explained that the name holds sentimental value as part of their family identity and love story, especially as their children grow older.
Maintaining Unity and Tradition Through Names
Meghan’s sentiment about sharing her name with her children resonates with many families, highlighting the universal significance of names and identity. As she revealed in a Netflix series, the choice to retain her title reflects a deep connection to her family and her unique journey with Prince Harry.
The royal family’s naming practices extend beyond William and Harry, with each member’s name carrying historical, personal, and symbolic meanings. Queen Elizabeth II’s name, for example, honors her mother and grandmothers, reflecting a lineage of strong female figures in her life. Similarly, King Charles III’s names pay tribute to his family history and the royal legacy he represents.
The Birth of New Titles and Traditions
When William and Kate welcomed their children, each name was meticulously chosen to honor family members and royal traditions. From Prince George of Wales to Princess Charlotte of Wales and Prince Louis of Wales, each child’s name reflects a careful blend of heritage and innovation within the royal family.
The naming of Prince Archie of Sussex and Princess Lilibet of Sussex also follows this pattern, with nods to family members and symbolic connections to their royal lineage. The significance of these names extends beyond mere titles, embodying a rich tapestry of history, love, and legacy within the royal family.
Looking to the Future
As the royal family continues to evolve and embrace new traditions, the significance of names remains a powerful link to the past and a beacon for the future. Each name tells a story, encapsulating a legacy of duty, honor, and continuity within the royal household. In a world of constant change, the royal family’s naming practices serve as a reminder of the enduring power of tradition and the timeless bonds that unite generations.
