Investing In England: The Designation Of Heirs To The Crown Throughout English History
Abstract
It was not until the late eighteenth century that rules for succession to the English throne were written. Succession to the throne has never been random. As such, the heir to the throne plays an important part in the history of England. The heir was the personification of the future of England and signified stability, dynastic continuity and power. This study examines the designation of the heirs from the oath received by William of Normandy, which justified the conquest of 1066, to the current Prince of Wales, Charles, investiture in 1969. In reviewing the methods and reasons for designating an heir there is an evolution as sovereigns sought to secure power for themselves and for their families.