Unveiled: Melania Trump's unexpected rationale for bypassing the royal family's customary curtsy during encounters
In a recent state visit to the United Kingdom, former President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, were greeted by members of the royal family. However, the visit was not without controversy, as some have questioned the protocols followed during their interactions.
Firstly, it was noticed that Melania did not curtsy when greeting King Charles III, Queen Camila, Prince William, or Kate Middleton. While there is no requirement to curtsy or bow when meeting a member of the Royal Family, it is a common practice for many people. For women, a small curtsy is expected, while men are expected to perform a neck bow from the head only.
In contrast, there was no such issue with Donald Trump's behaviour during the visit. Grant Harrold, a former royal butler, clarified that it's not actually a breach of royal protocol for a visiting head of state to walk in front of royals during a military welcome. In fact, it's not unusual for the visiting head of state to be front and center during such events.
This controversy about Trump walking in front of the King during the military inspection is a new development separate from the earlier discussions about Melania not curtsying. The royal family's official website states that there are no obligatory codes of behaviour when meeting a member of the Royal Family, but many people wish to observe traditional forms.
The correct formal address for the Queen is 'Your Majesty' and subsequently 'Ma'am,' pronounced with a short 'a,' as in 'jam.' For other female members of the Royal Family, the first address is conventionally 'Your Royal Highness' and subsequently 'Ma'am.' For male members of the Royal Family, the title used in the first instance is 'Your Royal Highness' and subsequently 'Sir.'
It's important to note that the people on social media who suggested that the Trumps had been disrespectful were not accurate in their assessments, according to the royal family's official website. The controversy surrounding Trump's behaviour during the military inspection has been a topic of discussion on social media, but it is separate from the issue of Melania not curtsying to members of the royal family.
Previous State Visits have shown examples of other leaders, like Clinton, walking in front of royals during military welcomes. The royal family's official website explains the traditions of addressing and greeting the royals in detail, providing clarity on these matters for the general public.
During the visit, Melania Trump visited only the United Kingdom. The visit was centered in the UK, including events at Windsor Castle and meetings in England, without mention of any other countries visited on this trip. Donald Trump and Melania were greeted by Kate Middleton and Prince William in Windsor on September 17 during their second state visit to the UK. King Charles III presented Donald Trump to his father during the visit.
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