Megxit - Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Royal Exit Explained

Summary

In January 2020, Prince Harry and Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, announced they would step back from their senior Royal duties to pursue a more independent life away from the public eye and media scrutiny. Their decision, reminiscent of Edward VIII's abdication and influenced by Harry's childhood experiences with the press, sparked global attention. The couple's goal was to establish financial independence and split their time between Canada and the UK, while working on projects similar to the Obamas. Despite stepping away, they retain significant wealth, primarily from the Royal family's real estate assets.

Takeaways

• 😀 Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to step back as senior members of the Royal Family to live a life free from royal duties and media scrutiny.
• 😀 The decision to step back parallels historical moments like King Edward VIII’s abdication in 1936 due to his desire to marry Wallis Simpson, a divorcée.
• 😀 Harry has seen the negative impact of the media firsthand, especially after the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana, in 1997, which was caused by paparazzi chasing her car.
• 😀 Meghan Markle, a divorcée, American, and an actress, faced harsh media criticism, especially concerning her ethnicity, previous marriage, and feminist views.
• 😀 Despite being a member of the Royal Family, Harry is not in line to be the next King, as he's sixth in the succession order behind his brother, Prince William.
• 😀 The Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced their plans to step back in January 2020, meaning they would give up titles like 'Royal Highness' and lose military titles for Harry.
• 😀 Harry and Meghan’s step back includes paying 2.5 million pounds for the remodeling of Frogmore Cottage, their former residence funded by public money.
• 😀 Their plan involves splitting time between Canada and the UK, trademarking 'Sussex Royal' to create a financially independent brand and foundation.
• 😀 Analysts suggest Harry and Meghan may be inspired by the success of Barack and Michelle Obama's foundation, which raises millions for causes related to the environment and the Commonwealth.
• 😀 Despite losing access to public funds, Harry and Meghan still benefit from private wealth, which includes extensive real estate holdings in the UK, ensuring financial stability.
• 😀 Harry’s primary motivation is to protect his family from the same media pressures that contributed to his mother’s death, making their decision a mix of personal freedom and security.

Q & A

Why did Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decide to step back from their royal duties?

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle chose to step back from their royal duties to pursue a life free from media scrutiny, royal obligations, and the intense public pressure associated with being senior members of the British Royal Family.

How does stepping back from royal duties affect Harry and Meghan financially?

By stepping back, Harry and Meghan gave up a small portion of their income (about 5%) that came from public funds. The majority (95%) of their income is derived from their private wealth, including real estate holdings, which will sustain their lifestyle.

What historical events are used in the video to provide context to Harry and Meghan's decision?

The video references two major historical events: Edward VIII’s abdication in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, and Princess Diana’s tragic death in 1997, both of which shaped Harry's views on the monarchy and media intrusion.

What was the significance of Princess Diana's death for Harry's decision to step back?

Princess Diana’s death, caused by paparazzi chasing her, left a deep emotional impact on Harry. He grew up understanding how harmful media attention could be, especially when it comes to the safety of his loved ones. This experience influenced his desire to protect his own family from similar pressures.

What are the consequences of Harry and Meghan stepping back from royal life?

Harry and Meghan faced several consequences, including owing £2.5 million for the remodeling of Frogmore Cottage, losing their 'Royal Highness' titles, giving up their military titles, and no longer representing the Queen in public duties.

What are Harry and Meghan's plans for their future after stepping back?

Harry and Meghan plan to divide their time between the UK and Canada, seek financial independence, and establish their own brand or foundation, focusing on projects such as environmental protection and strengthening the Commonwealth.

How does Harry's position in the line of succession affect his decision?

Harry, being sixth in line to the throne, is unlikely to ever become king. This allowed him to reassess his role within the Royal Family and pursue a life more focused on personal fulfillment and independence.

How does the video describe the media's treatment of Meghan Markle?

The video highlights how Meghan was harshly scrutinized by the British media for various reasons, including her ethnicity, previous marriage, family dynamics, and feminist views. This scrutiny was a significant source of tension for the couple.

What comparisons are drawn between Harry and Meghan and other public figures?

The video compares Harry and Meghan's decision to step away from the Royal Family to the example of Barack and Michelle Obama, who have successfully raised funds for their foundation and become financially independent, despite being public figures.

Why did Harry and Meghan trademark 'Sussex Royal'?

Harry and Meghan trademarked 'Sussex Royal' to create a financial brand and foundation, aiming to generate income and support projects that align with their values, all while being free from royal duties and public obligations.