You might think there are dozens of Royal Crown Families. There are not. Only about 26 monarchies still exist today.
That includes the big ones: the UK, Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand. But also tiny ones like Liechtenstein. Yes, that’s a real place with a real prince. He probably has a small, adorable crown.
Each family is unique. In Japan, the emperor is considered a “symbol of the state.” In Saudi Arabia, the king has absolute power. It’s a spectrum from “figurehead in a nice suit” to “boss of everything.”
The Weirdest Job Title: The Spare
Every Royal Crown Family has a backup plan. They call them “spares.” That’s the second-born child, just in case the heir bites the dust.
Prince Harry was the famous “spare” to Prince William. His whole childhood was about being the second best. No pressure, Harry.
The British Royal Family Tree: A Complete Guide to the Modern Monarchy
Spares often get to have more fun. They have less responsibility and more scandal potential. Think of them as the fun uncle of the royal household.