Understanding the Royal Family's Membership
Interestingly, one cannot apply to become a member of the British Royal Family. Unlike other organizations that one can join through applications or processes, the Royal Family operates under very specific and traditional protocols. Members of the Royal Family are either born into the family or marry into it. There is no third option for acquiring membership, which makes this process both fascinating and exclusive.
What Constitutes Membership in the Royal Family?
Members of the Royal Family are exclusively those who are born into the family or who marry into it. This stringent rule applies to all members and is deeply rooted in British tradition and protocol. The eligibility for membership is not based on personal achievement, wealth, or any other criteria. Instead, it is entirely dependent on a bloodline or marital connection to the reigning monarch.
The Traditional Process
The process for becoming a member of the Royal Family is quite simple, albeit highly specific. It begins with the traditional journey of young adults finding love and getting married. After a series of courtships and satisfactory engagements, a decided couple will tie the knot, typically in a grand and formal ceremony.
Once the couple is legally bound by marriage, the non-royal partner immediately becomes a member of the Royal Family. This transformation occurs the moment the officiant proclaims the two individuals husband and wife. The significance of this moment cannot be overstated; on that day, the individual's status in society is elevated to that of a member of the Royal Family, and any children they may have will also be considered members of the Royal Family.
Meeting the Royal Criteria
It's important to note that the Royal Family goes to great lengths to vet potential marriage partners. Non-royals who consider a relationship with a member of the Royal Family must undergo rigorous scrutiny. The approval of the current reigning monarch is essential, and this process often involves detailed background checks and family investigations. The goal is to ensure that the potential member is a suitable fit for the royal lineage and that the union will bring stability and respect to the family.
The case of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle provides an interesting example. It was widely reported that the Queen was more than pleased with Harry's choice of partner. The lack of objection from the monarch suggests that the vetting process had concluded favorably. However, the Royal Family's discretion regarding certain matters often leaves the public with unanswered questions. Nevertheless, the outcome of this vetting process decided whether the non-royal would become a member of the Royal Family and, by extension, whether their children would share that status.
Conclusion
Becoming a member of the British Royal Family is not a process one can control; it is an inheritance or a marriage. The Royal Family operates under these unwavering principles, and any deviation from them would likely be met with uniform opposition. While the journey of falling in love and getting married may seem straightforward, the transformation from a non-royal to a royal is steeped in tradition and protocol. Understanding this process helps shed light on the exclusivity and significance of the Royal Family.