The Royal Dukes of Britain: An Overview of Titles and Holders
The British royal family is known for its complex web of titles, which often include dukedoms. Those who hold these titles are not merely members of the royal family but also part of a long-standing aristocratic tradition. In this article, we will explore the current royal dukedoms and their holders, providing a comprehensive overview for those interested in British royal history and current affairs.
List of Royal Dukes in Britain Today
The British royal family is home to numerous dukedoms, with several members of the royal household holding these prestigious titles. Some of the most notable include:
William, Duke of Cornwall and Cambridge - The current Duke of Cornwall is Prince Charles, with the additional title of Duke of Cambridge being held by his eldest son, Prince William. This title is passed down to the eldest son of the heir apparent. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex - Also known as Duke of Sussex, this title is held by Prince Harry, a member of the royal family who has chosen to maintain his royal title. Prince Andrew, Duke of York - Prince Andrew is the third son of Queen Elizabeth II and holds the title of Duke of York. This dukedom is associated with the city of York in England. Richard, Duke of Gloucester - Prince Richard, Queen Elizabeth II's cousin, holds the title of Duke of Gloucester. This is a non-royal dukedom. Prince Edward, Duke of Kent - Prince Edward is another cousin of the Queen and holds the title of Duke of Kent. He also chose to take the title of Earl of Wessex. Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh - Prince Philip, formerly the Duke of Edinburgh, has been granted this title, though he is not the current holder.Additional Information on Royal Dukedoms
Other than the royal dukedoms listed above, there are several non-royal dukedoms held by members of the aristocracy. Notable examples include:
Duchy of Lancaster - This dukedom is held by the Sovereign in their capacity as the Duke of Lancaster, traditionally passed to the monarch on their accession. Duchy of Normandy - This title is associated with William the Conqueror's conquest of England in 1066 and is nominally held by the Sovereign, though it is also known as the Crown Estate. Duchy of Cornwall - This dukedom is held by the Prince of Wales, currently Prince Charles. It is one of the largest landholdings in the United Kingdom. Duchy of Rothesay - Held by the Prince of Wales, this title is a Scottish version of the Duke of Cornwall.Resources for Further Research
For those interested in delving deeper into the history and details of these titles, several resources are available:
Burke's Peerage and Baronetage: These books are a comprehensive source of information on British aristocracy and can be found in most major libraries. Debrett's Peerage and Baronetage: Another authoritative source that provides detailed information on the British peerage.Conclusion
The British royal family's dukedoms reflect a rich history and a complex web of titles. Understanding the current holders and the history behind these titles can provide valuable insights into the British aristocratic heritage. Whether you are a casual reader or a deep enthusiast of British royalty, this information can be a fascinating and educational journey.