Prince Philip was the Duke of Edinburgh for almost 74 years. After his death, the title is automatically transferred to his eldest son.
When it comes to royal titles, things get complicated. They often go back to centuries-old traditions and are associated with all sorts of special features that an outsider can hardly understand. A title that automatically passed from one to the other on the morning of April 9, 2021 is the Duke of Edinburgh.
Why Prince Charles is now the Duke of Edinburgh
On November 19, 1947, on the eve of his wedding to then Princess Elizabeth, Philip Mountbatten was received by King George VI. appointed Duke of Edinburgh, Earl of Merioneth and Baron Greenwich. Now, over seven decades later, Prince Charles inherits the titles as the deceased’s eldest son. Nanu? Actually, it is said that Prince Philips’ youngest son, Prince Edward, 55, would receive this honor. This is still the case.
Prince Edward is waiting for the title
When Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones, now Countess Sophie, married in 1999, they were given the titles of Count and Countess of Wessex. However, the palace announced that Edward would become Duke of Edinburgh in due course – but only after the Queen’s death and Prince Charles’ accession to the throne. Because when Charles becomes king, the title Duke of Edinburgh will be free again and can be reassigned.
The decision to award the title to Prince Edward was made in recognition of his longstanding commitment to the “Duke of Edinburgh Award” founded by Prince Phillip in 1956. Under the motto “You can do more than you think!” the prize aims to motivate, guide and support young people in their self-development.
Source used: own research