Royal Women: How Diana, Kate, Meghan Reshaped Monarchy

Princess Diana is recognized as the royal family's most significant "changemaker." Her marriage to the future King Charles 45 years ago marked the beginning of a profound shift in the monarchy. A new biography, "The Four Wives of Windsor," details the transformative influence of women who married into the royal family, including Diana, Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, and Queen Camilla.

Diana's impact stemmed from her tactile connection with the public and her approach to raising her sons, William and Harry. By making royal life more relatable, such as taking her sons to public places like Tower Records, she made the monarchy "more touchy-feely." Her decisions, like sending her sons to Eton College, have influenced subsequent royal parenting, including Prince William and Kate's choice for Prince George.

Furthermore, Diana's death in 1997 altered public mourning practices within the royal family. The Union Flag now flies permanently at half-staff over Buckingham Palace due to the public's reaction following her passing, a protocol change that even Queen Elizabeth II eventually made. This shift signifies a greater public acknowledgment of grief and a move away from rigid tradition.

Kate Middleton's influence is also noted, with her family providing a stable, relatable background. The royal family learned from Diana's relatively short courtship to Charles, allowing Kate ample time to adapt. Kate is described as having her own ideas and understanding the monarchy's brand value, influencing the upbringing of George, Charlotte, and Louis to be more private than previous generations.

Meghan Markle, marrying Harry in 2018, brought different expectations, particularly regarding PR control, which proved challenging within the British royal family. Despite being a "massive asset" and brilliant with the public, her potential impact was hampered by internal dynamics. Her initiative with the Grenfell kitchen book showed her capability as a "doer," but ultimately, egos and a lack of communication by 2019 led to estrangement.