What Would Happen If William Became King After Charles and George Without Children?
Imagine a scenario where William, Prince of Wales, ascends to the throne following the deaths of Charles, King of the United Kingdom, and George, who was heir to the throne but died childless. This would make Charlotte, William's daughter, the next in line for the throne. But, how does this work with the usual heir presumptive and the title 'Princess of Wales'?
No Prince of Wales
Situationally, it is noteworthy that during the period between 1936 and 1958, there was no Prince of Wales. Once the throne passed to King George VI, his eldest son, Edward, became King Edward VIII and then abdicated to marry Wallis Simpson. Following his abdication, his brother, Albert, ascended to the throne as King George VI. Thus, the Prince of Wales title remained vacant for almost two decades.
Princess of Wales in Her Own Right
If Charlotte were to become the heir apparent, she would hold the title of 'Princess of Wales' in her own right, rather than as a courtesy title for the spouse of a male 'Prince of Wales'. This scenario reflects the evolution of royal titles and the changing roles of the British monarchy in modern times.
Recalling the Title 'Princess of Wales'
Recall the case of Princess Diana. Diana held the title of 'Princess of Wales' as the wife of Prince Charles, upon whose death, the title was transferred to William's wife, Catherine (now known as the Duchess of Cambridge). Evidently, the title 'Princess of Wales' is a hereditary title, but it is not solely reserved for males. Therefore, there is no inherent issue with a female taking the title.
The Female Equivalent of 'Prince'
It is important to note that there is no female equivalent to the title 'Prince' within the official royal titles. The lack of a female equivalent to 'Prince' has led to confusion and discussion about whether such a title should be created. This debate often comes to the forefront in scenarios like the one we are examining, where there is a female next in line.
No Urgency for the Title 'Prince of Wales'
It is crucial to understand that the title 'Prince of Wales' is not automatically awarded to the heir apparent. It is only bestowed when a male child is born who will serve as the heir apparent. Thus, it is entirely possible that the title of 'Prince of Wales' could remain vacant for an extended period.
In the current scenario where William is the monarch, the title of 'Prince of Wales' is not given to Charlotte or William. Instead, the title 'Duke of Cornwall' and its subsidiary titles would be held by William. These titles can remain vacant and are not indispensable roles. The historical precedent of Bertie, the Duke of York, maintaining the title during his brother's reign also supports this point. There is no imperative need for the title 'Princess of Wales' or 'Prince of Wales' to be conferred whenever the heir is female.
Conclusion
While the notion of a female 'Princess of Wales' or 'Prince of Wales' may seem novel, it is a natural progression of the modern British monarchy. The lack of urgency for these titles highlights the adaptability of royal traditions in the face of changing family dynamics. As long as the female heir is acknowledged and recognized in other titles and roles, there is no significant issue with the continuation of British royal traditions.