British Royal Traditions: When Can the Queen Be Called by Her First Name?

Introduction

Traditionally, the British monarch has been referred to with formal titles, such as 'The Queen' or 'HM' (Her Majesty). However, there have been instances where the queen has been called by her first name, 'Elizabeth,' by select family members and individuals with a close relationship. This article explores these unique situations and the reasons behind them, as well as how other monarchs across the world interact with each other using first names.

Formal and Informal Greetings

Immediate Family and Close Friends

Under normal circumstances, only very close family members and individuals with a personal relationship have the privilege of addressing the British monarch by her first name. These typically include: Immediate Family: Her children, grandchildren, and possibly other close relatives such as siblings. Close Friends: Long-time friends or confidants who have a personal relationship with her. For example, when King Charles III addressed Her Majesty, he referred to her using his personal terms, showing the unique relationship within the royal family.

Private Versus Public

Although the queen is a public figure, she is still a normal human being with close family and friends. In private settings, the queen has been known to be addressed using more intimate terms, such as 'Mummy,' 'Granny,' or even 'Lilibet.' Prince George, for instance, uses the term 'Granny.'

Recent Examples

Her parents, grandparents, sister, and husband would have called her by her first name in private. After their passing, she continued to be addressed as such by close family members, including Prince Philip, who affectionately called her 'Cabbage.'

The Duke of Kent and the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, as well as Princess Alexandra, have also been known to call her by her first name or 'Lilibet' in private.

Other Monarchs' Greetings

Equal-Ranked Monarchs

It is common for other monarchs of equal ranking to address each other by their first names. For example, many other kings and queens from around the world, including Nelson Mandela, have been known to address her as 'Elizabeth,' and she seemed to be unfazed by such familiarity.

Foreign Heads of State

During state visits, heads of state from other countries often use the monarch's first name in their private conversations. For example, former Grand Duchess Olga of Russia referred to her as 'Lilibet' during a visit, and the Mountbatten sisters also used this term in private.

Public and Private Greetings

While in public, titles such as 'Queen Elizabeth' or 'The Queen' are used. However, in private, the queen has said it would get lonely if few people continued to use her name, emphasizing the importance of personal terms within close family and friends.

Conclusion

The ability to call the British queen by her first name is a rare and special privilege that is often reserved for immediate family members and close confidants. It reflects the unique relationships within the royal family and the courtesies extended to equal-ranking monarchs. As the queen's successors and successors in other countries continue to interact, it is likely that they will maintain these practices to maintain the personal and professional relationships among heads of state.