Understanding the Line of Succession: A Non-British Citizen's Chance

The recent additions to the line of succession to the British throne have sparked a curiosity among the public, especially regarding non-British citizens. This article will explore the current line of succession and whether a non-British citizen has the potential to inherit the throne.

August Philip Hawke Brooksbank: Breaking New Ground

The first non-British citizen in the line of succession to the British throne is August Philip Hawke Brooksbank, a son of Princess Eugenie, a member of the British royal family. August was born on February 9, 2021, and holds dual citizenship as a British citizen by descent and an American citizen through his mother, who is of American heritage.

How Did August Enter the Line of Succession?

August's place in the line of succession stems from his lineage. He is a descendant of Queen Elizabeth II, thus qualifying him for the prestigious position. Despite his dual citizenship, the rules of succession are quite clear; one must be a descendant of Sophia of Hanover, making them a British citizen by definition.

Current Line of Succession: A British Predominance

The current line of succession is dominated by British citizens, with the first six positions filled by those born in the United Kingdom. Interestingly, the seventh position in line is held by Princess Lillibet, who was born in the USA. However, Princess Lillibet's chances of becoming the next monarch are quite slim, given that she has three cousins and an older brother, any of whom could potentially have children in the future.

Protection of British Citizenship in the Succession

The 1705 Sophia Naturalization Act was enacted to ensure that the heir to the throne was a British citizen. This act declared that Sophia of Hanover, who was the heir to the throne following the death of her distant cousin Prince William, Queen Anne's last surviving child, was a British citizen, along with all her descendants. Additionally, another Act of Parliament explicitly excludes from the succession anyone who is not descended from Sophia, further cementing the British citizenship requirement.

Speculations and Theories

Some theories suggest the possibility of becoming a non-British citizen in the line of succession through the Norwegian royal family, descendants of Edward VII, and the line of Queen Victoria. However, current legal and royal family structures do not facilitate such possibilities.

Non-British Citizens in the Succession

While Princess Lillibet was born in California, she still has a British father and therefore maintains British citizenship. In terms of non-British citizens, King Harald V of Norway is the first monarch to hold a non-British citizenship.

Conclusion

The British throne's line of succession remains firmly grounded in British citizenship. While August Philip Hawke Brooksbank is the first non-British citizen in the line of succession, his dual citizenship does not affect his standing under current laws. It is unlikely that a non-British citizen will ever inherit the throne, but the structure remains open for discussion and debate.