Highness facts for kids
Highness is a special way to address certain important people, like princes and princesses. It's a formal title that shows respect and recognizes their high position. You might see it written as HH for short.
This title was historically used for members of the nobility who were important, but not usually the very top rulers. It's a bit like saying someone is "high up" or "important."
Understanding the Title
The title "Highness" shows that someone has a certain level of importance or rank. It's used to acknowledge their dignity and honour. However, it's not the highest title you can have. For example, "Royal Highness" and "Imperial Highness" are considered even higher in rank. Even "Grand Ducal Highness" is a higher title than just "Highness."
This style was often used by nobles in the Holy Roman Empire, which was a large group of lands in Central Europe that existed for many centuries. These nobles were important in their regions but not always kings or emperors.
Who Used the Title?
Historically, "Highness" was given to specific individuals to mark their status. Here are a couple of examples:
Notable Figures with the Title
- Charles Emmanuel III of Sardinia: Before he became the King of Sardinia, he was known as His Highness The Duke of Aosta. He used this title from April 27, 1701, until March 22, 1715. Sardinia was an important kingdom in what is now Italy.
- Victor Amadeus, Prince of Piedmont: He was known as His Highness The Prince of Piedmont. Later, when his father became a king, Victor Amadeus's title changed to the higher rank of Royal Highness.
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