Descendants of Dead Monarchs: Re-establishing Birth Right and Royalty

Introduction

Much of Europe's rich history is interwoven with monarchical lineage. It is not uncommon for individuals to trace their family tree back to monarchs like Charlemagne. While many are tempted to ask if being a descendant of a dead monarch qualifies one as royalty and if one can re-establish their 'birth right,' the truth is more nuanced and often less straightforward.

The Concept of Royal Descent

The notion of royal descent is both intriguing and complex. Unlike popular belief, not all descendants of monarchs are automatically considered royalty. In most cases, only close relatives, such as siblings, children, and sometimes more extended family members, are granted such titles and privileges.

Types of Birth Rights

Many individuals mistakenly believe they have a 'birth right' to re-establish a claim to royalty. However, this is often a misconception. The birth right could pertain to various aspects:

A claim to the throne of the monarch your ancestor once ruled over Access to the family fortune or estates Privileges and titles related to the monarchy

Legal and Historical Precedents

Historically, there are instances where descendants have attempted to re-claim their birth right. One notable example is a man in Australia who, based on historical records, believes he is the rightful British monarch. Although his claim is unverified and disputed, it highlights the complexities involved.

For a detailed analysis and understanding of royal descent, the work of Irish genealogist Dr. Mark Humphrys provides a valuable resource. Here are a few key areas to explore:

My Possible Royal Descent My Wife’s Royal Descent Royal Descents of Famous People

According to Dr. Humphrys, many individuals, including the author of this article, may have royal descent without knowing it. Nonetheless, in most cases, there are no real benefits or rights for distant relatives of monarchs.

Recent Case Studies

The recent discovery of King Richard III's remains under a parking lot in Britain is a compelling case study. A DNA sample was needed to positively identify him, and Michael Ibsen, a descendant of King Richard III, was found. He is an example of how royal lineage can span continents and centuries.

Michael Ibsen: An Un-royal Carpenter with Royal DNA

Michael Ibsen, a Canadian-born carpenter living in London, was identified as a suitable descendant for the DNA test. His contribution to the memory of his distant royal ancestor was significant. Ibsen not only helped positively identify the remains but also built a coffin for the king's final resting place in Leicester Cathedral. After his contribution, Ibsen returned to his normal life, embodying the narrative that being a descendant of a monarch does not necessarily mean one will have a direct say in the monarchy's future.

This case underscores the ordinary yet extraordinary nature of being a descendant of a monarch. It also highlights the logistical and emotional challenges that come with such a high-profile claim and identification.

Conclusion

In summary, while being a descendant of a dead monarch can be a fascinating and significant fact about one's lineage, it rarely translates into a re-established birth right or a claim to royalty. The rules and frameworks that govern such claims are complex, and in most cases, these descendants are considered commoners. The examples illustrated in this article serve to demystify the concept, highlighting both the practical and emotional aspects of such a lineage.

Further reading and exploration of the resources provided can offer deeper insights into the intricacies of royal descent and its implications in today's society.