Strategic Maneuver: Meghan Markle Skillfully 'Buttered Up' Queen Elizabeth II in Her Favor

In a recently published book titled "My Mother and I" by royal biographer Ingrid Seward, surprising details emerge about Meghan Markle's relationship with Queen Elizabeth II. Despite the rift between the Sussexes and the palace, the book portrays a monarch who held a favorable opinion of her American granddaughter-in-law. According to Seward, Meghan knew precisely how to "butter up" the queen, maintaining regular communication—a practice that was not common among the monarch's own children. This sentiment was echoed by Prince Harry during their engagement interview in November 2017, where he mentioned that the corgis took an immediate liking to Meghan. Describing the scene, Meghan added that the dogs were affectionate, even during tea time, as they lay at her feet.

Seward suggests that Meghan's ability to connect with the queen may have been due to small gestures, such as having treats for the dogs. She remarks that the queen did not have many opportunities to spend time with the couple, but Meghan, as an American, would often call her—an action that many of her own children did not frequently undertake. Seward also notes that Meghan's mother, Doria Ragland, who attended the wedding, had a chance to meet the queen.

In addition to their personal rapport, Harry and Meghan impressed Queen Elizabeth with their involvement as president and vice president of the Queen's Commonwealth Trust, a charity close to her heart. The queen had high hopes for the Commonwealth, considering it her own creation, and saw the couple as bringing a sense of modernity and youthfulness to the organization. However, as tensions arose and circumstances changed, the queen, like others, began to question the couple's desires, wondering if they were ever satisfied despite having a new house, a new baby, and widespread admiration.

Beyond the insights into the Sussexes, Seward supports Prince William's recent comments on Israel and Gaza, even though they diverged from the queen's typically neutral approach to diplomacy. She acknowledges that William's statement was carefully crafted and approved by the government and advisors. Seward believes that William, known for his strong convictions, felt compelled to speak out on the issue, recognizing that he could address it in a way that his father, as head of state, could not.

While Prince Charles has occasionally taken a different approach from his mother, Seward emphasizes his unwavering dedication to duty, a quality he has admired in Queen Elizabeth from a young age. Charles shares his mother's ability to accept circumstances that cannot be changed and compartmentalize them. Seward speculates that Charles may be employing this approach in his current dealings with Harry, as he has numerous responsibilities that demand his attention.

In summary, "My Mother and I" sheds light on Meghan Markle's astute approach to winning the favor of Queen Elizabeth II, showcasing a relationship that defied expectations despite the challenges faced by the Sussexes within the royal family.