The Unique Case of Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor: Born Overseas in the Spotlight

While the recent birth of Princess Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor has sparked much debate, it is important to contextualize this event against the backdrop of historical royal births both within and outside the United Kingdom. Lilibet follows in the footsteps of several royal members before her who were born overseas, often under rather different circumstances. This article aims to illuminate these aspects of royal history and explore the nuances of royal protocols in childbirth.

Breaking Down Royal Protocols: Lilibet vs. Other Royal Offspring

To begin, let's clarify that the use of terms such as "baby" or "lilly" by the Sussexes is a matter of respect and protocol that was ultimately granted permission by Queen Elizabeth herself. Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor's name was indeed registered and officially licensed weeks before her birth—underlining her open and celebrated nature from the very beginning.

It’s a well-known fact that while Lilibet's birth was celebrated and publicized, many other royal members have also been born overseas. For instance, Prince Philip was born on June 10, 1921, in Corfu, Greece, far from the United Kingdom. He was in line for the thrones of Greece, Denmark, and the United Kingdom purely due to his lineage.

Princess Lilibet: Born Overseas, No Title

Despite the hoopla surrounding her birth, Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor is not technically a princess or a royal with a title. The Crown’s protocol requires a formal statement to be issued if a royal child is born, signed by the medical team present. Prince William and the three Cambridge children followed this protocol, with the entire world witnessing their births and the infants being brought home to showcase to the public.

In stark contrast, Meghan Markle's first-born child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, when born in the UK, did not follow these protocols. Lack of transparency regarding the hospital and medical team present was a significant deviation. Furthermore, the birth of Archy-David, also known as Lilibet, in Los Angeles did not receive an official acknowledgment from the palace.

Historical Precedents: A Lifelong Story

One of the most famous royal births abroad occurred with Queen Elizabeth II's own mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. She was born as the first child of Claude George Bowes-Lyon and??? (Syf Plowden) in Fife, Scotland, not far from the border with England. Her birth was marked by royal protocols, but it was a far cry from the highly publicized events surrounding Lilibet's birth.

Another historical instance is Princess Astrid of Sweden, who was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1905. She was the second daughter of King Gustaf V of Sweden and Victoria of Baden. Her birth also adhered to royal protocols and was celebrated within the context of her times.

The Significance of Lineage and Proving Lineage

To be in the line of succession, children must be born in their mother's body. Therefore, the Sussexes must present the medical proof of the birth of Lilibet to ensure her credibility. Without this proof, she faces challenges in being recognized as a royal of the United Kingdom and her place in the succession.

Prince Philip’s birth, while in Greece, was significant not only for the lineage he brought to the British throne but also for the safety of his family. His mother's birth in Windsor and death at Buckingham Palace represent the changing nature of royalty and its geographical scope.

Every royal birth since this period has followed a pattern that remains largely consistent to this day, emphasizing the importance of protocol and lineage. The case of Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor, paradoxically, becomes a significant point of reference for discussing the evolution of royal births, from private and almost public, as it unfolded before a world that was much more digitally connected than ever before.

Conclusion

The birth of Lilibet Mountbatten-Windsor, while widely celebrated, is part of a broader history of royal births that have spanned geographical boundaries. From the birth of Prince Philip in Greece to the royal protocol violations by Meghan Markle, each birth story provides a unique snapshot of the ever-evolving traditions and protocols surrounding royal childbirth.

Understanding the historical context and the necessity for adherence to protocol provides a richer appreciation for the significance of each royal birth. It also underscores the importance of open and transparent communication for maintaining legitimacy within the royal lineage.