It is a practice that runs deep in royal history(Image: WireImage)
A surprising number of people are just now realising that Prince Harry’s real name is not Harry at all, but rather Henry. This minor revealation is highlighting a broader and often misunderstood tradition within the British royal family, where members are often known by different names from those given to them at birth.
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, was born Henry Charles Albert David. “Harry” is a common nickname for Henry and has been used publicly since his birth. While seemingly a simple personal choice, it is a practice that runs deep in royal history, particularly among those who have ascended the throne.
The tradition of choosing a regnal name—a name for a monarch to reign under—is perhaps the most notable example. King Charles III, for instance, chose to use his first name, but he had the option to select any of his middle names (Philip, Arthur, or George).
His choice came as a slight surprise to some royal watcher(Image: Global Images Ukraine via Getty)
His choice came as a slight surprise to some royal watchers, as the name “Charles” has been historically associated with turbulence in the monarchy, with Charles I being executed and Charles II having a reputation as a philanderer.
A more significant example is King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II. Born Albert Frederick Arthur George, he was known to his family as “Bertie.” When he unexpectedly became king after his brother’s abdication, he chose to reign as George VI.
This decision was widely seen as a deliberate act to project stability and continuity, honoring his father, King George V, and distancing the monarchy from the controversy of his brother’s reign.
Other senior royals also have multiple names, even if they are known by their first. The late Queen Elizabeth II’s full name was Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, and the Prince of Wales was born William Arthur Philip Louis.
Other senior royals also have multiple names(Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
The royal family’s relationship with surnames is another complex layer. While they are members of the House of Windsor, they can use their family’s territorial titles as surnames when needed, such as in the military.
This is why Prince Harry and Prince William were known as “Harry Wales” and “William Wales,” a surname derived from their father’s title at the time, Prince of Wales.
The public’s surprise over these naming conventions underscores how much of the monarchy’s traditions are not widely known. While modern royals are more accessible through media than their predecessors, the practice of a personal name versus a public one remains a key part of their identity.
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