How Jack the Ripper fits in with the 7 weirdest royal conspiracy theories
Compelling stories about murder and intrigue involving kings, queens and princes capture the minds of people around the world
From John F. Kennedy being murdered by the US government, to Buzz Aldrin staging a fake moon landing, some of the most influential historical figures have found themselves the subjects of conspiracy theories.
Royals are no exception. Although the theories largely have no real evidence to back them up, they’re compelling enough to capture the minds of people around the world.
Read on for seven of the most fascinating conspiracy theories about kings, queens and princes:
1. Princess Diana’s death in a car accident was orchestrated by the British royal family
Perhaps the most widespread modern conspiracy theory about the British royal family concerns Princess Diana’s death in 1997. An adored member of the royal family, Lady Diana Spencer married Prince Charles in 1981, and became known as the “People’s Princess” on account of her popularity with the public.
Diana and Prince Charles divorced in 1996, and Diana’s life ended in devastating fashion on August 31, 1997. International investigations concluded that Diana and her boyfriend Dodi Fayed had died from injuries following a tragic drink-driving accident.
Soon after, theories emerged that her death was an assassination – some even claiming that it was the dirty work of Prince Philip, another member of the royal family, or Prince Charles. The motive? To prevent Diana from marrying Fayed, a Muslim, and giving birth to his child, according to the conspiracy theory.
Although the princess had speculated in a letter about her being in danger, according to the Associated Press, there is no evidence that she was pregnant at the time or contemplating marriage to Fayed.