Is it possible to gain knighthood or a noble title, not through inheritance?

Question

I was wondering if it was legitimately possible to be known as "sir", lord, baron, duke, or whatever you like(noble-wise) coming from the common population. I am American, from Irish descent, and am not famous or wealthy. However, I found sites online that claim to sell these titles and that they are legal and binding. I am interested in gaining the status of nobility, in any country really, that I can bequeath to my future children. I was wondering if this was even possible and how I could go about doing that if it were.

Answer 1

Yes, it is possible for commoners to be knighted or raised to the peerage.  For instance, Lawrence Olivier was first knighted, and later became Lord Olivier.  Andrew Lloyd Webber of CATS fame is now a peer.  Dame Maggie Smith, Dame Flora Robson, Dame Judi Dench (almost of CATS fame), Sir John Gielgud, Sir Richard D'Oyly Carte, and many others have been knighted for their contributions to the arts, to science, and so on.

BTW, the rank of 'knight' is not an inherited title.  If I recall correctly, the lowest inherited rank in Britain is 'baronet'.

Answer 2

Knighthoods are not inherited.  All knights have been personally knighted by a monarch.  The monarch can also create and bestow noble titles upon whoever he or she wishes, most of which are then passed down through inheritance.  So my suggestion is impress the Queen.  That's really your only option that I know of.

Answer 3

Yes if you have done something memorable

Answer 4

Just go forth and slay a few dragons! Honors will surely follow. Best of luck---

Answer 5

Well all the Beatles were knighted, Elton John , But don't pay a fake web site anything ! They are ripping you off !

Answer 6

Yes.  If you do something that the queen likes, then she may knight you.  Just look at Elton John.

Answer 7

These are phony and since you are of Irish descent you shouldnt even WANT a title of royalty. The Queen...um..whats her name...Knights people all the time who are not from  noble families. Dont u remember when Bono sold out?....well...he sold out LONG before that.

Answer 8

If you were so fortunate as to be knighted by Her Majesty, you could not hold the title in America. Nor is it hereditary.

If you want to be foolish enough to hand over money for a bogus title, go ahead.

Answer 9

Yes, it is possible to either buy such a title and it is also possible to do something distinguished enough to be knighted or created nobility by the Queen.