25 Facts About Prince Harry

Early Life and Family

Prince Harry, officially known as Prince Henry Charles Albert David, has lived a life under the spotlight since birth. His early years were filled with both privilege and tragedy, shaping the man he is today.

1. Born on September 15, 1984, at St. Mary's Hospital in London, Prince Harry is the younger son of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
2. His full name, Henry Charles Albert David, is rarely used; he is commonly known as Harry.
3. Harry is the younger brother of Prince William, who is second in line to the British throne.
4. Tragically, his mother, Princess Diana, died in a car crash in Paris in 1997 when Harry was just 12 years old.

Education and Military Service

Harry's education and military service have played significant roles in his development, providing him with discipline and a sense of duty.

5. Harry attended Ludgrove School and later Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in the UK.
6. He took a gap year after Eton, during which he traveled to Australia and Africa, working on various projects.
7. In 2005, Harry entered the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where he trained to become an officer in the British Army.
8. He served in the British Army for ten years, rising to the rank of Captain and undertaking two tours in Afghanistan.

Personal Life and Marriage

Harry's personal life has always been a subject of public interest, especially his marriage to Meghan Markle.

9. In 2016, Harry began dating American actress Meghan Markle, best known for her role in the TV series "Suits."
10. The couple announced their engagement in November 2017 and married on May 19, 2018, at St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle.
11. Harry and Meghan have two children: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, born in May 2019, and Lilibet Diana Mountbatten-Windsor, born in June 2021.
12. The couple stepped back from their roles as senior members of the royal family in January 2020, seeking financial independence and a more private life.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Prince Harry has used his platform to champion various causes, focusing on mental health, veterans, and conservation.

13. In 2006, Harry co-founded Sentebale, a charity supporting children affected by HIV in Lesotho and Botswana.
14. He launched the Invictus Games in 2014, an international sporting event for wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women.
15. Harry has been open about his struggles with mental health, advocating for greater awareness and support through initiatives like Heads Together.
16. He and Meghan established the Archewell Foundation in 2020, aiming to uplift and unite communities through various charitable endeavors.

Controversies and Challenges

Life in the public eye has not been without its challenges and controversies for Prince Harry.

17. In 2005, Harry faced criticism for wearing a Nazi uniform to a costume party, for which he later apologized.
18. His relationships with the British press have often been strained, particularly due to their treatment of Meghan Markle.
19. The couple's interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2021 revealed tensions within the royal family and allegations of racism.
20. Harry has been vocal about the impact of media scrutiny on his mental health, drawing parallels to his mother's experiences.

Current Endeavors and Future Plans

Prince Harry continues to evolve, taking on new roles and responsibilities while maintaining his commitment to service.

21. In 2020, Harry and Meghan signed a multi-year deal with Netflix to produce documentaries, docu-series, feature films, scripted shows, and children's programming.
22. They also signed a deal with Spotify to produce podcasts that promote diverse voices and perspectives.
23. Harry has taken on a role as Chief Impact Officer at BetterUp, a mental health and coaching platform.
24. He is working on a memoir, set to be published in late 2022, which promises to offer an intimate and heartfelt look at his life.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Beyond the headlines, there are many interesting and lesser-known aspects of Prince Harry's life.

25. Harry is an avid polo player, often participating in charity matches to raise funds for various causes.

Prince Harry's Impact

Prince Harry's life has been a whirlwind of royal duties, personal struggles, and public service. From his military service to his charitable work, he's shown resilience and dedication. His marriage to Meghan Markle brought a fresh perspective to the royal family, challenging traditions and sparking global conversations. Harry's openness about mental health has inspired many, breaking down stigmas and encouraging others to seek help. His move to the United States marked a new chapter, focusing on family and new ventures. Through it all, Harry remains a figure of intrigue and admiration, constantly evolving and making headlines. Whether you're a royal enthusiast or just curious about his journey, there's no denying his significant impact on both the royal family and the world. Keep an eye on Prince Harry; his story is far from over.