The title "Is Princess Anne's daughter a princess?" might seem straightforward, but the answer is not as simple as it appears. The royal titles and their usage can be quite complex and are often governed by rules and traditions that date back centuries.
To understand the title of Princess Anne's daughter, we must first delve into the British royal family's hierarchy and the rules governing royal titles.
Understanding Royal Titles
The British royal family follows a strict hierarchy of titles, with the monarch at the top. The titles are not automatically bestowed upon every child of a royal; they are often granted based on specific rules and traditions.
For instance, the children of the monarch are automatically given the title of 'Prince' or 'Princess' and an 'HRH' (His/Her Royal Highness) style. However, the children of other members of the royal family do not automatically receive these titles.
Royal Marriages Act 1772
The Royal Marriages Act 1772 states that the monarch must give consent for a royal to marry. If the monarch does not give consent, the royal loses their right to the title 'HRH' and the associated Prince/Princess style.
However, this act was amended in 2013, and now only the first six people in the line of succession need the monarch's consent to marry. Princess Anne's daughter, Zara Tindall, was not in the top six at the time of her marriage, so she did not lose her title.
Queen Elizabeth II's Decree
In 1987, Queen Elizabeth II issued a decree that the children of Princess Anne and her husband, Captain Mark Phillips, would not have royal titles. This was at the request of Princess Anne herself, who wanted her children to have as normal a life as possible.
However, this decree did not affect Zara's royal status. She is still a member of the royal family and can use the title 'Lady' as she is the daughter of an earl (her father, Captain Mark Phillips, was created an Earl in 1997).
Zara Tindall's Royal Status
Zara Tindall, born Zara Anne Elizabeth Phillips, is the only daughter of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips. She was born on 15 May 1981, and although she does not have a royal title, she is still a member of the British royal family.
Zara does not use a royal title because of her mother's request and the Queen's decree. However, she is still referred to as 'Lady' Zara Tindall, as she is the daughter of an earl. She is also 19th in line to the throne, which further solidifies her royal status.
Zara Tindall's Role in the Royal Family
Despite not having a royal title, Zara Tindall still carries out royal duties. She regularly attends royal engagements and events, often representing the Queen. She is also a keen sportswoman, following in her mother's footsteps, and has competed in the Olympics for Britain in equestrian events.
Zara's role in the royal family is not as prominent as some other members, but she is still a valued and active part of the royal family. Her royal status is not determined by her title, but by her bloodline and her commitment to her royal duties.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the British royal family, the question of Zara Tindall's royal status serves as a reminder that royal titles are not the only indicator of one's place in the royal family. Her dedication to her royal duties and her role as a member of the royal family are what truly define her royal status.