In a surprising turn of events, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle announced in 2020 that they were stepping down from their duties as senior royals in Buckingham Palace. This decision sent shockwaves throughout the world, as the couple was one of the most prominent and revered in the royal family. Many questions arose following their announcement, leaving people wondering about the reasons behind their choice and what it meant for the future of the monarchy.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as they were formally known, made this revelation on their official Instagram account. In a heartfelt statement, they explained their desire to “carve out a progressive new role within this institution” and shared their intention to become financially independent. The couple expressed their hope to balance their time between the United Kingdom and North America, while still supporting the Queen and their royal patronages.
Critics and media outlets quickly dubbed this move “Megxit” - drawing a parallel to Britain’s exit from the European Union, known as Brexit. The announcement sparked intense debates and captured worldwide attention. Some praised the couple for prioritizing their mental health and pursuing a life outside the public eye, while others criticized them for abandoning their responsibilities and undermining the monarchy’s stability.
The reasons behind Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision were multifaceted. They had faced intense media scrutiny from the moment their relationship was made public, with Markle, in particular, facing racist and sexist coverage. The couple cited the relentless intrusion of the press and the toll it took on their mental wellbeing as primary factors for their choice to step back. They desired a more private life for themselves and their growing family, which included their son, Archie, and later their daughter, Lilibet Diana.
While their decision to step down as senior royals shocked the world, it was not entirely unprecedented within the royal family. Prince Harry’s mother, Princess Diana, had faced similar challenges and had been vocal about the negative impact of media intrusion. This connection led many to draw parallels between the two situations and empathize with the couple’s struggles.
In the aftermath of their announcement, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex embarked on a new chapter in their lives. They relocated to North America, specifically California, and began building their own brand outside the confines of the royal establishment. They established Archewell, a nonprofit organization focusing on charitable work and societal issues, while also signing lucrative deals with streaming platforms for their television and podcast projects.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to step down from their duties as senior royals undoubtedly had a profound impact on the monarchy. It forced the royal family to confront the need for modernization and adapt to changing times. Their departure raised questions about the sustainability of traditional royal roles and the monarchy’s relevance in contemporary society. Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding their move, the couple remained committed to using their platform for causes they believe in, striving to create positive change in the world.
Source: Insider
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