The British royal family has been a subject of great interest and scrutiny, with discussions on diversity and representation gaining momentum in recent years. While Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, brought increased attention to the issue as a biracial woman marrying into the royal family, she is not the only person of color connected to the British monarchy. In fact, there have been several individuals throughout history who have had diverse racial backgrounds and ties to the royal family.
One notable figure is Queen Charlotte, the wife of King George III, who reigned from 1761 to 1820. Queen Charlotte is believed to have had African ancestry, specifically descended from Margarita de Castro e Souza, a Portuguese noblewoman of African descent. Historical records and contemporary accounts suggest that Queen Charlotte possessed features commonly associated with African heritage. Her African ancestry is thought to have come from an African branch of the Portuguese royal family, the House of Braganza.
Moving forward in time, another individual with a mixed racial background who has a connection to the British royal family is Lady Davina Lewis. Lady Davina, the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, is of mixed European and Afro-Caribbean heritage. Her mother, Birgitte, is Danish, while her father, Prince Richard, is a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II. Lady Davina's marriage to Gary Lewis, who is of Maori descent, further adds to the multicultural aspects of her family.
There are other members of the extended British royal family who have connections to various racial backgrounds. For instance, Zara Tindall, the daughter of Princess Anne, is married to Mike Tindall, a former rugby player of English and Zimbabwean descent. Their children, Mia and Lena Tindall, have Zimbabwean ancestry through their father.
In recent years, there have been discussions about the possibility of diversifying the British royal family even further. As the monarchy continues to evolve and adapt to the changing social landscape, it is not inconceivable that more individuals of diverse racial backgrounds may become part of the royal family through marriage or other means.
It is important to note that while these individuals have connections to the British royal family and diverse racial backgrounds, they may not identify solely as "persons of color" or choose to use that terminology. Identity is complex and personal, and individuals may embrace various aspects of their heritage based on their own experiences and self-identification.
The British royal family has seen the inclusion of individuals with diverse racial backgrounds throughout its history. While Meghan Markle has been a prominent figure in discussions of race and representation within the royal family, other members, such as Queen Charlotte, Lady Davina Lewis, and various extended family members, have also added multicultural dimensions to the monarchy. As society progresses, it is possible that the royal family will continue to become more inclusive and reflective of the diverse makeup of the United Kingdom and the wider world.
