Why did Prince William and Harry use different names and what are they now?

Although William and Harry sometimes used the surname Mountbatten-Windsor (with their deceased grandparents-Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip), at about twenty and served in the military, they used the surname Wales.

This name was a tribute to their father, Prince Charles, who before becoming a king in 2022. After the death of Queen Elizabeth II, there was a prince of Wales.

Royal individuals usually use their parents’ names, which are based on their official titles until they are given their own titles.

So, Harry’s last name is now Sussex because he is the Duke of Sussex, and William’s name remains Wales because he is the new prince of Wales.

Photo by Scanpix

In 2011, married to Kate Middleton, William became the Duke of Cambridge and began using Cambridge (Cambridge). But more than a decade later, when his father handed him the title of Prince of Wales, he returned to his surname Wales.

2022 William’s three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – also began using the last name Wales.

Photo by Scanpix

2018 After marriage to Meghan Markle, Harry received the title of Duke of Sussex, making Harry Sussex.

Although Harry and M. Markle 2020 gave up their royal duties and were allowed to keep their surname Sussex if it was not used for official royal affairs.

Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, initially used the surname Mountbatten-Windsor.

As stated on the website of the royal family, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1960. It decided that all the direct offspring without titles JTM (his/her royal Majesty) or the prince/princess would use the double surname Mountbatten-Windsor, combining the names of both families.

But Harry’s children were given the titles of Prince Archie Sussex and Princess Lilibet Sussex after Charles (76) became king.

As stated on the website of the royal family, Archie and Lilibet are now sixth and seventh in a row to the throne.