Why is it that monarchies have the first son become king?

Question

Why can't the latter borns become a king over the eldest son? Who made this rule?

Answer 1

tradition

Answer 2

Actually, this was not the case with Emperors of China during the last few centuries. The eldest son did not always necessarily inherit the throne after the death of the Emperor. During China’s last ruling dynasty also know as the “Qing Dynasty” before it became a republic, eight ruling Qing Emperors starting from Huang Taiji (1626-1643) to Xianfeng Emperor (1850-1861) inherited the throne without being the first born son. Since it was not a tradition to name the heir until upon the Emperor’s deathbed, many of his sons (Princes) were competiting against each other for throne. This was also a chance to prove their capabilities, strengths, weaknesses, intelligence, bravery, etc. It is most important for the emperor to know that he is leaving his nation in good hands and to someone he could trust. Many emperors would test their sons from literature to archery, and letting them fight on battlefields to test their bravery and leadership skills. The emperor would finally name the Crown Prince when he feels he had found the right candidate rather than having his first born son inherit the throne right at birth.

Answer 3

It's called the rule of primogeniture - and, as Teyve said, in Fiddler on the Roof, 'Tradition!"

It's also the reason that first born daughters are superceded by a younger brother. Women only take the throne if there are no available men in the line of succession.

Does it all make sense? No - but sensibility has never been a consideration when it comes to royalty.

Answer 4

first come, first serve................

Answer 5

Now it's the first born.

Answer 6

In Sweden it's the first child , boy or girl.