Clarifying the Royal Title: Has Meghan Markle (Duchess of Sussex) Claimed to be a Princess?

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has never explicitly claimed the title of Princess. While she gained widespread media attention after marrying Prince Harry, the grandson of Queen Elizabeth II, in May 2018, her official title is Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex. However, the confusion around her title and the misconception that she refers to herself as a Princess has been fueled by the complexity of the British royal hierarchy and the media's portrayal of her. To understand this matter more clearly, it is essential to delve into the intricacies of the British royal family and Meghan's position within it.

In the British royal family, the title of Princess is typically granted to women who are born into the royal family, rather than those who marry into it. For example, Princess Charlotte and Princess Beatrice are both princesses by birthright. On the other hand, Kate Middleton, who married Prince William and is now known as the Duchess of Cambridge, is not officially titled as a Princess but rather a Duchess. This distinction is crucial in understanding why Meghan Markle is not referred to as Princess Meghan.

When Meghan married Prince Harry, Queen Elizabeth II bestowed upon them the titles of Duke and Duchess of Sussex. As such, Meghan's correct and official title is Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex. It is worth noting that the queen has the authority to grant titles and change them as she deems fit. The decision to give Harry and Meghan the title of Duke and Duchess of Sussex was a reflection of the queen's recognition of their role within the royal family.

Despite her official title, many people still refer to Meghan Markle as "Princess Meghan" or the "Princess of Sussex" due to a common misconception. This misunderstanding may stem from the fact that the media often uses the term "princess" to refer to any female member of the royal family. Additionally, Meghan's high-profile marriage to Prince Harry, her charitable endeavors, and her global popularity may have contributed to the public's inclination to bestow upon her the title of princess.

It is essential to differentiate between a title granted by birthright and a title bestowed upon marriage. In Meghan's case, her title is linked to her husband's, Prince Harry, who holds the title of Duke of Sussex. As a Duchess, Meghan holds a rank within the royal family, but it is not equivalent to that of a princess by birth. This distinction is not to diminish Meghan's significance or contributions but rather to clarify her official standing within the British royal hierarchy.

Meghan Markle has also faced criticism and controversy throughout her time in the royal family and following her departure from official royal duties. Some argue that she has used her position and media presence to promote herself as a princess or to perpetuate the misconception. However, it is important to note that Meghan has never explicitly claimed the title of Princess and has instead embraced her role as the Duchess of Sussex.

Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has not claimed the title of Princess. While the media and public have often referred to her as "Princess Meghan," this is a misnomer. Her official title is Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex, which was bestowed upon her when she married Prince Harry. The confusion surrounding her title arises from a misunderstanding of the British royal hierarchy and the media's portrayal of her. Regardless of her title, Meghan has made significant contributions in her role as a member of the royal family and as a public figure.