I just found out that male precedence for succession in the British monarchy has been abolished a few days ago-- "Centuries of British royal discrimination came to an end Friday after Commonwealth leaders agreed to drop the rules that gave sons precedence as heir to the throne [and bar anyone in line for the crown from marrying a Roman Catholic]." (http://www.ibtimes.com/articles/239951/20111029/british-royal-heir-daughter-throne-crown-son.htm)
Indeed, this means that if Prince William and Kate Middleton's first child is a baby girl, she will take precedence as the female heir to the throne over a potential younger brother. Without this change, "their first son would eventually become king even if he had an older sister," which Prime Minister David Cameron has agreed is a way of thinking that is certainly "at odds with the modern countries that we've all become." The end of men-first in the line of succession to the British throne is a significant step in the progress for women in terms of their economic equality and political power, which I am surprised did not occur sooner. Then again, it is difficult to alter an important practice that has been steeped in a nation's tradition for so long, so it is hopeful to hear that the government has finally been willing to take this step.
Indeed, this means that if Prince William and Kate Middleton's first child is a baby girl, she will take precedence as the female heir to the throne over a potential younger brother. Without this change, "their first son would eventually become king even if he had an older sister," which Prime Minister David Cameron has agreed is a way of thinking that is certainly "at odds with the modern countries that we've all become." The end of men-first in the line of succession to the British throne is a significant step in the progress for women in terms of their economic equality and political power, which I am surprised did not occur sooner. Then again, it is difficult to alter an important practice that has been steeped in a nation's tradition for so long, so it is hopeful to hear that the government has finally been willing to take this step.
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