Understanding the Current Monarchy System and Meghan Markle's Future

Recently, there have been numerous discussions surrounding Meghan Markle and the possibility of her becoming the Queen of England. However, these speculations often overlook the intricate details of the British monarchy system and historical facts. This article aims to clarify these misunderstandings and provide a clearer picture of the royal succession and the future of the British monarchy.

What is the Current Monarchy System in the UK?

The British monarchy is a constitutional monarchy that operates within the United Kingdom (consisting of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland) and its commonwealth realms. The current monarch, King Charles III, ascended to the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on September 8, 2022.

The monarchy in the UK is characterized by several key aspects:

Titles and Roles: The monarch currently has the title of 'King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and other realms and territories beyond the seas, and of the Dominions and other territories also beyond the seas, and Head of the Commonwealth.'

Line of Succession: Succession to the throne in the UK follows a specific line of descent through the male descendants of George III.

Commonwealth Realms: The UK is also the head of 15 other realms, which are independent countries under the monarchy, including Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Jamaica.

Why Meghan Markle Can't Be the Queen of England

Despite the widespread speculation, Meghan Markle will not be the Queen of England. There are several reasons for this:

1. No Carrying of the Title

The title 'Queen of England' has not been used in official documents or the succession laws of the UK for over 300 years. In reality, the UK does not have a 'Queen of England' or a 'King of England'; these titles ceased to exist with the Act of Union of 1707, which united Scotland and England under a single monarch.

Although Queen Elizabeth II was known as the 'Queen of England,' this title was a courtesy title and did not carry any legal or constitutional significance. The full title of the current monarch is the 'Monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.'

2. No Royal Lineage

Meghan Markle, as an American actress, has no royal lineage and was never been a member of the royal family. For a person to become the monarch of the UK, they must be born into the royal family or directly related to a current monarch.

Even if Prince Harry, Meghan’s husband, were to become king, Meghan would only be the Queen consort, akin to current Queen Consort Camilla. However, this is highly unlikely for several reasons:

3. The Line of Succession

Prince Harry is currently fifth in the line of succession. To become king, Harry would have to displace his father, King Charles III, and all his four older siblings, which is not a realistic possibility.

For Meghan to become queen consort, she would need to marry into the royal family and align herself with the current line of succession. However, even if she had married Prince William, the eldest son of King Charles III, the possibility of them becoming monarchs is very slim due to the current health and age of King Charles III and his children.

Public Reactions to Speculations

The British public takes an overwhelmingly realistic stance towards such speculations. They understand the intricacies of the British monarchy and the laws governing it. If the possibility of Prince Harry becoming king were to materialize, the majority of the public would prefer a republic over a monarchy headed by Harry and Meghan.

Speculations aside, the British people would be more likely to engage in lighthearted conversation about the fringe possibilities, often thinking of these as the "snowballs in hell" they are.

It's essential to keep in mind that the British monarchy is steeped in tradition and legal frameworks that ensure a clear and stable succession. Meghan Markle's role within the royal family will remain that of a duchess, rather than a queen.