Meghan Markle’s Ancestor Was Beheaded On King Henry VIII’s Orders

Meghan Markle’s ties to the Royal Family date back to hundreds of years ago.

The Telegraph reported that a recent study of Markle’s family tree revealed that one of her ancestors was beheaded after King Henry VIII ordered his people to do so. Markle’s ancestor’s wealth and land were also confiscated following a fall from favor.

Lord Hussey, first Baron Hussey of Sleaford, was the great-great-great-grandfather of Captain Christopher Hussey. The latter left England in the 1650s to become a Founding Father of Nantucket. Ten generations later, a new family tree in America was created with Thomas W. Markle. He married Doria Ragland, and they had Markle in 1981.

Ever since reports swirled that Markle and Prince Harry are dating, several television documentaries and newspapers have researched the “Suits” actress’ roots. It was revealed that her ancestors on her dad’s side were from Yorkshire, while her relatives on her mom’s side were traced to a slave forced to work on the Georgia plantation.

It was also noted that Markle and Prince Harry are distant cousins through their mutual ancestor, High Sheriff of County Durham Ralph Bowes, according to News.com.au.

Meanwhile, interest in Markle’s lineage heightened amid reports that she and Prince Harry are already engaged. However, the couple has not yet made any announcement. But even without the official confirmation of their engagement, Markle dropped her role in “Suits,” and she also cut ties with various advertising contracts because she will be relocating in London this month.

In September, Markle herself confirmed that she and Prince Harry are dating. But she revealed that they have been seeing each other since earlier this year. However, she only decided to make the confirmation six months later. While speaking with Vanity Fair, she said, “We’re two people who are really happy and in love.”

According to the Telegraph, Prince Harry would have to ask Queen Elizabeth II’s approval first to marry Markle. If the queen says yes, it is the palace that will confirm their engagement, as well as their wedding date.