Prince Harry & Meghan Markle Give Their 2 Children, Archie & Lilibet, New Last Names

In a groundbreaking move that underscores their unique position within the British royal family, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have introduced an interesting approach to their children’s surnames.

Their two children, Archie, aged 4, and Lilibet, aged 2, previously known by the surnames “Mountbatten-Windsor,” have now embraced their royal titles as part of their official last names.

In a gesture well-received by Harry and Meghan, when he ascended the throne in 2022, King Charles III offered his grandchildren the prestigious prince and princess titles. They accepted the titles, but it was only later that they were used for the first time.

This remarkable transition was publicly acknowledged in March 2023 during the christening of Princess Lilibet, where the titles were officially used for the first time. The children’s names have since been updated on the royal family’s official website to “Prince Archie of Sussex” and “Princess Lilibet of Sussex.”

The adoption of “Sussex” as the family surname aligns with royal traditions, where titles and territorial designations often serve as surnames, further embedding the children’s royal lineage and their parents’ legacy within their names. This approach to surnames follows a historical precedent within the royal family, where names and titles are deeply intertwined with identity and heritage.

As outlined on the official royal website, royal surnames often reflect paternal lineage. However, the royal family has its unique traditions, with sovereigns typically adopting the name of their ‘House’ from their father.

This tradition ensures continuity and honors the familial legacy, as seen with the House of Windsor. Unless a monarch decided...