The decision by Meghan, the former Duchess of Sussex, to introduce herself as "Meghan Sussex" reflects a significant shift in how she and her family choose to identify themselves. In an episode of her Netflix series, "With Love, Meghan," the 43-year-old shared that she finds it meaningful to share the same surname as her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. This choice underscores a deeper connection within the Sussex family unit and aligns with traditional royal naming conventions.
Understanding the intricacies of royal surnames can be complex. Historically, members of the British royal family have not always used last names. When needed, some royals adopted Mountbatten-Windsor, combining Queen Elizabeth II's surname Windsor with Prince Philip's last name. However, Harry, who was born Henry Charles Albert David, never formally used this combined name. Instead, he went by Wales during his school and army years. The transition to Sussex for Harry and Meghan signifies their preference for a name that resonates more personally and historically with their identity.
The adoption of Sussex as a family name is not just a personal choice but also a nod to established royal traditions. After the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the ascension of King Charles III, Archie and Lilibet gained new titles and moved up in the line of succession. As they now hold the titles of prince and princess, using Sussex aligns perfectly with royal protocol. This change highlights the evolving nature of the royal family and emphasizes the importance of tradition while embracing modernity. It sets a positive example for maintaining heritage while fostering unity within the family.