Growing up in the shadows of your sibling
Various members of the British royal family have also served in the active military. A very recent example is Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, who fought in Afghanistan.
While not all royals are involved in military service, it is considered an important way for the family to demonstrate their commitment to the country.
On various occasions, British royals have used their influence to raise awareness and to garner support for organizations that help servicemen, veterans, and their families.
For example, in 2014 Princes William and Harry founded the Invictus Games, a sporting event for wounded, injured, or sick armed services personnel and veterans.
The inspiration for the event was Prince Harry’s visit to the 2013 Warrior Games in the US. It was there he became convinced of sport’s potential to help with both physical and psychological issues.
The British royals also have a habit of directly addressing their subjects during wartime in a bid to boost morale and provide direction.
Just as war with Germany had been declared, the King appealed to the people of his country to stand firm in face of the tough times ahead.
Then, in October 1940, a 14-year-old Princess Elizabeth spoke to evacuees via the radio program 'Children’s Hour,' urging them to have courage.
During peace time, one of the main responsibilities of the royal family is diplomacy. Indeed, British royals play an important diplomatic role in promoting peace and goodwill between nations.
On countless occasions, members of the royal family have made state visits and undertaken diplomatic missions to strengthen relationships and foster international cooperation.
During her reign, Queen Elizabeth II made an impressive number of state visits and hosted a wealth of foreign leaders to promote diplomatic relations.
Favorite causes that British royals have supported over the years include healthcare, education, environmental conservation, and poverty alleviation.
The British royals love to get involved with philanthropy. Over the years, they have been patrons of several different charitable organizations.
Through their patronage, the royals lend their support to a wide range of causes and use their influence to raise funds and awareness.
The focus of the couple’s charity work tends to be on mental health and children’s well-being, as well as other social issues.
Sources: (Imperial War Museums) (Western Front Association)
After joining, she trained as a driver and mechanic, and she served with the rank of Second Subaltern. After just five months she was promoted to Junior Commander.
During World War II, for example, Princess Elizabeth (who would later become Queen Elizabeth II) joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS).
George VI served in both the Royal Navy (RN) and the Royal Air Force (RAF) during World War I, and he was joined in the RAF by Edward VIII.
Going further back, there are examples of military royals in both the World Wars. For example, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh served in several battles during World War II.
For example, at 6 pm on September 3, 1939, King George VI spoke to the people of Britain and the Empire via a radio broadcast.
A classic wartime occupation for the royals is to assume a leadership role of some description, both to offer moral support and to serve as a symbol of national unity.
If you've ever wondered what the British royal family gets up to from day to day, the answer is quite a lot! From traveling all over the world on diplomatic visits, to getting involved with charity work just around the corner from their home, members of the British royal family have a number of responsibilities to keep them busy. Those responsibilities do differ, however, depending on whether or not the country is at war.
Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.
The Crown at war (and peace): unpacking the duties of British royals
The different occupations of the royal family
LIFESTYLE British royal family
If you've ever wondered what the British royal family gets up to from day to day, the answer is quite a lot! From traveling all over the world on diplomatic visits, to getting involved with charity work just around the corner from their home, members of the British royal family have a number of responsibilities to keep them busy. Those responsibilities do differ, however, depending on whether or not the country is at war.
Curious? Check out this gallery to learn more.