In a shock and largely silent move, Meghan Markle has removed her first names from her son Archie Sussex’s birth certificate. The change, made without public announcement, has been described as “mysterious” by royal watchers.
Archie, now five years old, was born on May 6, 2019. His birth was registered 11 days later, a standard procedure for royal births. However, a recent report by the Mirror revealed that an amendment was made to his birth certificate on June 5, 2019, a month after his birth.
The original birth certificate listed Meghan’s full name, “Rachel Meghan,” as Archie’s mother. The amended certificate now reads “Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex.” This change is in keeping with royal protocol, which typically emphasizes titles over personal names.
The timing of this shift is notable. It came as tensions between Prince Harry and his brother, Prince William, were reportedly beginning to rise. The growing rift between the brothers has been widely documented and analysed, adding layers of complexity to every decision and action within the royal family.
According to sources close to The Sun, the name change was due to a precedent set by Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton. On the birth certificates of the Prince and Princess of Wales’ children, Kate is listed as “Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales.” Meghan’s decision to change her name on Archie’s birth certificate is seen as an adherence to this established protocol, despite her personal preferences.
Prince Harry’s own birth certificate mentions Princess Diana as “Her Royal Highness The Princess of Wales.” This consistent use of titles rather than given names underlines the formality and tradition that permeate royal documentation.
Royal commentators have speculated on the reasons behind Meghan’s decision. Some suggest it was a move to align herself more with royal protocols and expectations, while others believe it could have been an attempt to assert her position and title within the royal framework during a period of increasing tension.
The change also reflects the intricate and often scrutinized nature of royal life. Every decision, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can become a point of public interest and speculation. For Meghan, who has frequently been in the media spotlight since marrying into the royal family, this alteration to Archie’s birth certificate is another example of the pressures and expectations placed on her.
Despite the speculation, Meghan and Harry have been focusing on their family. They currently reside in the United States, where they have been raising Archie and his younger sister, Lilibet, in a more private and autonomous environment compared to their previous life in the United Kingdom.
This latest development adds to the story of Meghan and Harry’s ongoing journey to balance their royal duties with their desire for a more independent and private life. As they navigate their roles both inside and outside the royal family, decisions like amending Archie’s birth certificate highlight the complexities they face.
In conclusion, Meghan Markle’s amendment of Archie Sussex’s birth certificate, changing his name to “Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Sussex,” reflects adherence to royal protocols and the current dynamics within the royal family.
