Is Meghan Markle’s Second Baby Still Considered a Royal Baby?

With the changing dynamics of the British royal family and the evolving perceptions of what it means to be a 'royal baby,' it's natural to wonder about the status of Meghan Markle's second child. In reality, the terms 'royal baby' and 'royal' are often used loosely in the public domain, but there are strict criteria that determine who can truly be classified as a member of the royal family.

Understanding 'Royal Baby'

The term 'royal baby' implies a high level of royal connections. Traditionally, this term refers to any newborn within the direct line of succession to the throne, descending from Queen Elizabeth II or her immediate descendants. The distinction is rooted in the dual nature of the title 'Her/His Royal Highness' (HRH), which is reserved for members of the royal family and certain high-ranking heirs.

Criteria for Royal Status

To be considered part of the royal family, one must be directly related to the monarch. The current rules of succession, outlined in the Act of Settlement and the subsequent Succession to the Crown Act 2013, stipulate that only those who directly descend from the monarch, or from one of the monarch's children, may hold royal status.

Archie and Lucas: Current Royal Kids

Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, son to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Lucas Alexander Mountbatten-Windsor, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's sister, Zara Tindall, are both recognized as royal children. However, their status is not due to their parentage but rather through their direct descent from the monarch.

Lucas Alexander Mountbatten-Windsor: The New Addition

The recent birth of Lucas Alexander Mountbatten-Windsor to Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall further underscores the hierarchy of the royal family. Despite being connected to the royals, Lucas's status is not one of direct royal lineage. He is part of the royal family because of Zara's connection to the monarch via her marriage to Prince Edward.

Will the Next Baby be Royal?

Given the current rules, the next child of Meghan Markle is unlikely to be classified as a 'royal baby' unless there is a change in the succession order. Prince William and Kate Middleton’s children, George, Charlotte, and Louis, are also not royal unless they ascend to the throne.

Future of the Royal Family

The British royal family is continuously evolving, and with new members like Zara Tindall's new baby, there is a growing network of royal and near-royal relations. The term 'royal baby' may become less rigid as the definition of 'royalty' broadens to include different types of royal connections.

Conclusion

In summary, Meghan Markle's second child will not be considered a 'royal baby' under the current rules. The designation remains reserved for those who directly descend from the current monarch or future monarchs. As the royal family continues to grow and change, the definition and use of terms like 'royal baby' may undergo its own evolution.