Kate Middleton: A Modern Princess
Our latest special edition offers an intimate look at Kate Middleton's journey from commoner to the Princess of Wales, with insights into her cancer diagnosis, life as a royal mom, and how she's shaping the modern monarchy. Read the introduction below, then sign up for T&C Premium to receive your copy in the mail. Sign up now
From the moment Kate Middleton said “I do” to Prince William in Westminster Abbey in 2011, she secured her place in the history books. The reserved and sporty student, who caught the Prince’s eye during their time together at St. Andrews University, instantly captured the world’s imagination as a future queen.
Keen to work hard and be an asset to the monarchy, over the years Kate has listened and learned as she has gradually enlarged her royal role to take on more public engagements, charity work, and overseas visits. And behind closed doors she has not been afraid to assert her own influence, based on her modest and happy childhood, on the grounded and unpretentious type of family life she wants for Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Much of the fascination with monarchy lies in the history and the grandeur of pomp and pageantry. Yet if the institution is to survive in the modern age it is imperative that its members are also forward-thinking, humble, and relatable. This is no easy balance to strike, especially under the intense scrutiny of the social media age. Yet after 13 years on the world stage, and despite many ups and downs for the royals, Kate has emerged as one of the most popular members of the British royal family. Like the late Queen Elizabeth, she has the instinctive ability to connect with people sincerely, sharing just enough that we feel connected to her but not so much that the allure of mystique is lost.
Kate and William can captivate at a state banquet or on a red carpet. But they also do the school runs themselves and emphasize their love of simple pleasures like baking and playing on the beach with their children, all of which is hugely important to how the public perceives the monarchy today. In contrast to the way in which William’s childhood was plagued by paparazzi who relentlessly pursued his mother, Diana, William and Kate have largely succeeded in protecting their children from the spotlight in their day-to-day lives.
Perhaps there is no better example of Kate’s ability to connect with the public than by being the first ever royal to use a video message to make a personal health announcement. Written herself, the heart-wrenching revelation that she was being treated for cancer sparked a huge swell of empathy and compassion from across the globe. Throughout the video, Kate displayed the dignity, composure, and inner strength that those of us who have followed her time in public life closely have come to recognize. These are all qualities that will undoubtedly continue to shine through during the next chapters for this future queen.
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