Princess Charlotte, the second child of Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, is set to receive a unique royal title when her father ascends to the throne. While the British Royal Family has undergone significant changes in recent years, one of the most notable shifts in titles will come when Prince William becomes King. As the monarchy evolves, Princess Charlotte’s role within the royal family will also be redefined, granting her a title that very few women in British history have ever held.
The Changing Landscape of the British Royal Family
The British monarchy has seen a wave of transformations over the past few years. From the passing of Queen Elizabeth II to Prince Harry stepping away from royal duties and Prince Andrew’s controversies, the structure of the royal family has shifted significantly. King Charles III, now reigning as monarch, is not expected to serve for several decades due to his age. This means that, in the foreseeable future, Prince William will ascend to the throne, marking a significant milestone for the royal family and his children.
When this transition occurs, the titles of William’s family members will also change. One of the most significant title adjustments will be for Princess Charlotte, who currently holds the title Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana of Wales and is third in line to the throne.
The Future Princess of Wales
Upon William’s ascension to the throne, his eldest son, Prince George, will become the Prince of Wales, a title traditionally reserved for the heir apparent. As a result, Princess Charlotte and her younger brother, Prince Louis, will also undergo changes in their royal titles.
Charlotte, as the daughter of a king, will continue to be addressed as Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte, but she will also be eligible for an even rarer honor—the title of Princess Royal.
What is the Title of Princess Royal?
The title Princess Royal is a prestigious designation traditionally given to the eldest daughter of the reigning monarch. However, it is not automatically granted upon birth or upon a king’s ascension. The title is bestowed by the reigning monarch and can only be held by one person at a time.
The History of the Princess Royal Title
The title of Princess Royal has a long and distinguished history. It has only been given to seven royal women in British history. The first woman to hold the title was Princess Mary, the eldest daughter of King Charles I and Queen Henrietta Maria. Since then, it has been an honor reserved for exceptional female royals.
The seven Princess Royals in British history include:
- Princess Mary (1631–1660) – Daughter of King Charles I
- Princess Louisa Maria (1692–1712) – Daughter of King James II and VII
- Princess Anne (1709–1759) – Daughter of King George II
- Princess Charlotte (1766–1828) – Daughter of King George III
- Princess Victoria (1840–1901) – Daughter of Queen Victoria
- Princess Louise (1867–1931) – Daughter of King Edward VII
- Princess Mary (1897–1965) – Daughter of King George V
- Princess Anne (1950–present) – Daughter of Queen Elizabeth II and the current Princess Royal
Will Princess Charlotte Become Princess Royal?
Princess Charlotte is highly likely to receive the title Princess Royal when Prince William becomes King, but there are a few factors to consider:
- Princess Anne currently holds the title. Since the title is held for life, Princess Charlotte cannot assume the title of Princess Royal unless Princess Anne passes away or the monarch chooses to grant it after a certain period.
- King William V (Prince William) would have to officially bestow the title. Unlike some royal titles that are automatically inherited, Princess Royal is granted at the discretion of the reigning king or queen.
- There may be a delay. When Queen Elizabeth II became queen in 1952, she did not immediately grant the title to her daughter Anne. Instead, Princess Anne was made Princess Royal in 1987, 35 years after Elizabeth became queen.
What Would the Title Mean for Charlotte?
If Charlotte is given the title Princess Royal, it will mark her as a highly significant figure within the monarchy. The role does not come with specific constitutional responsibilities, but historically, Princess Royals have played key roles in public service, charity work, and representing the monarchy internationally.
For example, Princess Anne, the current Princess Royal, has spent decades carrying out royal duties and is one of the hardest-working members of the royal family. She is involved in over 300 charitable organizations and frequently represents the UK on international visits.
Should Charlotte receive this title, she would likely follow a similar path—engaging in royal engagements, charity work, and supporting the monarchy in various capacities.
How Charlotte’s Role in the Royal Family May Evolve
Princess Charlotte’s future as a senior royal is still unfolding. However, as the second child of the future King, she will likely take on significant responsibilities. Some key aspects of her evolving role could include:
- Increased Public Appearances: As she grows older, Charlotte will likely take on more royal engagements, similar to her mother, Princess Catherine.
- Philanthropic Work: If granted the title Princess Royal, she may follow in the footsteps of Princess Anne, becoming involved in numerous charitable initiatives.
- International Representation: Like her great-aunt Princess Anne, she could represent the British monarchy on the global stage.
- A Key Royal Supporter: While she is not the direct heir to the throne, Charlotte will remain an important member of the royal family, supporting her brother, Prince George, as he prepares to be king in the future.
Conclusion
As the daughter of a future King, Princess Charlotte is poised to receive one of the most exclusive titles in British royal history. While she will initially hold the title of Princess Charlotte of Wales once Prince William becomes King, she is also expected to be named Princess Royal, following a centuries-old royal tradition.
The title is currently held by Princess Anne, who has served as a dedicated royal for decades. However, when the time comes, Charlotte will likely step into this prestigious role, continuing the legacy of strong and influential women in the royal family.
While the transition is still years away, the anticipation of Princess Charlotte’s future role adds another layer of fascination to the ever-evolving British monarchy. Her journey as a royal will be closely watched as she grows into her responsibilities, shaping the future of the royal family alongside her father and siblings.
