Warning Surrounding Kate Middleton's Role as Queen Consort

Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, is set to become the sixth Queen Catherine in the history of the royal family when her husband, Prince William, ascends to the throne. However, this role comes with a historical association with ill fate, particularly for queens named Catherine.

According to a new book, "The Catherine Code" by Robert J. Casey, the five royal namesakes who preceded Kate Middleton all faced tragic and often ill-treated destinies. These queens named Catherine had a series of unfortunate events in their lives.

Catherine of Aragon, the first wife of Henry VIII, was the daughter of King Ferdinand of Aragon and Queen Isabelle of Castile. Her inability to produce a male heir led to her banishment after three years of marriage.

Another Catherine who met a tragic fate was Catherine Howard, Henry VIII's fourth wife. She was beheaded at the age of 19 in the Tower of London for premarital affairs.

Catherine Parr, Henry VIII's sixth and final wife, outlived him but passed away a year later in childbirth.

Catherine of Braganza, who was the wife of King Charles II of England, faced opposition from Protestant extremists and did not have any children.

The history of the monarchy also includes two other Queen Catherines, Catherine of Lancaster, the wife of Henry III, and Catherine of Valois, the wife of Henry V.

While Kate Middleton's future as Queen Consort is filled with opportunities and responsibilities, it is essential to remember the historical context of the name Catherine in the royal family and the challenges faced by her predecessors.