The Royal Exiles: Notable Members Kicked Out of the Royal Family

The royal family is a tightly-knit and historic institution, but occasionally, situations arise where members find themselves out of favor or forced to make difficult decisions. These instances, while rare, can have significant impacts on the family and society.

King Edward VIII: A Tragic Sacrifice

One of the most iconic examples of a royal exile is King Edward VIII. In 1936, he faced a challenging predicament when he chose to prioritize his romantic relationship over the traditional and expected social norms. Edward's decision to marry Wallis Simpson, an American woman who had been divorced twice, was met with intense disapproval. Given the strict protocols surrounding the British monarchy, Edward ultimately had to make a difficult choice. In 1936, he voluntarily relinquished the throne, marking a significant turning point in British history and personal sacrifice.

Exclusion from the Throne

Edward VIII's exile was not just a personal decision but also a political one. The new King, his brother George VI, needed to maintain the monarch's image and reputation. As a result, Edward was exiled and could not return to the United Kingdom without the permission of George VI. This decision had far-reaching implications, not only for Edward but also for the entire royal family.

Princess Mako: Modern Day Royal Drama

While the situation of King Edward VIII is historic, modern times have seen similar occurrences within other royal families. One notable example is Princess Mako of Japan, who faced a similar fate. In 2017, she chose to marry her “commoner” college sweetheart, Kei Komuro. For fulfilling the marriage, Princess Mako was stripped of her royal status. This event highlights the ongoing struggles within royal families to reconcile personal desires with traditional expectations.

Diverse Reasons for Exclusion

There are numerous reasons why individuals may find themselves excluded from the royal family. These reasons can vary from personal ambitions to simple misunderstandings. Here are a few other instances where royal members faced similar challenges:

Marriage to Non-Royal

Princess Mako, Japan: Princess Mako, a member of the Japanese imperial family, lost her royal status after her marriage to Kei Komuro in 2017. Although she remains related to the family, the official status change marked a significant shift for her. Autumn Phillips (Lady Soames): Autumn Phillips, a British citizen, lost her royal status after her divorce from Prince Michael of Kent. If she had reverted to her birth name, Lady Soames, she would not have been considered a royal member anymore. Sarah Ferguson: While Sarah Ferguson, Princess Anne's ex-wife, remains a royal member, her status is a testament to the complexities within the royal ranks. Death: When a royal member passes away, their status in the royal family naturally changes.

Conclusion

The exclusion of royal members is often a result of a clash between personal desires and traditional expectations. These situations highlight the often complicated and tumultuous lives lived by those within the royal family. While such instances are rare, they serve as important reminders of the stringent rules and hierarchies that govern royal families.