Anne's Choice: Kids Without Royal Titles

Princess Anne, born on August 15, 1950, will celebrate her 76th birthday on August 15, 2026. The daughter of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip wed Captain Mark Phillips in 1973, with whom she had two children: Peter Phillips, born November 15, 1977, and Zara Phillips, born May 15, 1981. This union concluded with their divorce in 1992, after nearly 19 years of marriage.

Renowned for her diligent work ethic, fondness for horses, and distinctive humor, Princess Anne has consistently guarded her family's privacy. In a 2020 interview, she explained her decision to forgo royal titles for her children, stating it was likely easier for them and that there are significant downsides to such titles. This approach ensured a more private upbringing for Peter and Zara.

As Princess Anne marks this significant birthday, a retrospective on her life and her relationship with her children is timely. Her commitment to maintaining boundaries has shaped her family's experience away from the intense public scrutiny often associated with the royal family.