The British royal family has long had a strong following in the United States, with Americans captivated by their pageantry, tradition, and history. However, the recent drama surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has revealed a striking difference in how Americans and Brits view the royal family. While Harry and Meghan have faced harsh criticism in the UK, they have received a much more positive reception in the US.
One reason for this difference may be that Americans have always had a fascination with the British royal family. Despite fighting a war of independence to break away from British rule, Americans have never completely shed their fascination with the monarchy. This is evident in the popularity of British-themed merchandise, the popularity of British shows and movies, and the attention given to the British royal family in American media.
Another reason for the difference in the reception of Harry and Meghan in the US compared to the UK may be that Americans see the royal family differently than Brits do. While the British royal family is seen as a symbol of tradition and continuity in the UK, many Americans view them more as celebrities or figures of intrigue. In this view, the drama surrounding Harry and Meghan is seen more as an intriguing story rather than an affront to tradition.
Additionally, Americans may also relate to the struggles of the couple more than in the UK. Harry and Meghan’s decision to step back from their roles as senior members of the royal family, as well as their openness about dealing with the pressures of being a royal family member and the impact of the media, may resonate with Americans more than it does with Brits. This relatability may lead to more empathy and understanding from American public.
Furthermore, Americans may also view the situation differently because of the cultural and historical context. The royal family in the UK has traditionally been seen as a symbol of unity and continuity, and any deviation from that norm can be seen as a threat to that stability. On the other hand, Americans have a more individualistic culture and are often more open to change. In that sense the Meghan and Harry’s decision to step back, and pursue their personal happiness, might be seen as a courageous move.
In conclusion, while Americans and Brits both share a fascination with the British royal family, the recent drama surrounding Prince Harry and Meghan Markle has revealed significant differences in how they view the monarchy. Americans’ enduring fascination with the royal family, their view of the royal family as celebrities or figures of intrigue, and their relatability to the couple’s struggles, may be some of the reasons why Americans seem more pro-Harry than Brits.