Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (born September 15, 1984, in London, England), is the younger son of Charles III and Diana, Princess of Wales. He served two tours in the British military in Afghanistan before founding the Invictus Games, an international sporting event for injured and sick veterans and service members.
Early Life and Family
Princess Diana wanted Harry and his elder brother, Prince William, to understand life beyond royal privilege. She often took them on public transportation, to fast food restaurants, and stood in line with them at Disney World. She also brought them along on visits to homeless shelters, orphanages, and hospitals to help them develop empathy.
Determined that they “have an understanding of people’s emotions, their insecurities, people’s distress, and their hopes and dreams,” Diana aimed to ground her sons in real-world experiences.
Marriage and Royal Status
In 2018, Harry married American actress Meghan Markle. Two years later, the couple stepped back from their roles as working members of the British royal family.
Impact of Diana’s Death
Diana’s tragic death at age 36 profoundly affected Harry. A widely recognized image shows him at age 12, walking solemnly with Prince William behind their mother’s casket as it passed through the streets of London, a moment that deeply moved the British public.
The image of Harry walking behind Diana’s casket “did much to endear Harry to the British people.”
Prince Harry’s life reflects a unique blend of royal duties, personal challenges, and a commitment to supporting veterans and others in need.