The Royal Family are renowned for many traits. But one little known trait shared by some of the Royal Family is left-handedness. August 13 marks International Left-Handers Day, so which members of the Royal Family are celebrating their rare gift today?
What is Left-Handers Day?
This year is the 23rd annual Left-Handers Day which is celebrated each year on Thursday, August 13.
The day was originally devised by Dean R Campbell, founder of the Left-Handers International Inc. in 1976, to help raise awareness of the advantages and disadvantages of being left-handed.
The day was later declared an official celebration by the Left-Hander’s Day Club on August 13, 1997.
Research suggests between 10 and 12 percent of the world’s population is left-handed.
The special day honours the daily struggles experienced by left-handed persons in a world predominantly designed at right-handed individuals.
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Queen Victoria
Several members of the Royal Family through the centuries are likely to have been left-handed.
But one older monarch who is renowned for her left-handedness is Queen Victoria.
The monarch was often seen writing with her right hand but would paint with her left hand.
Painting with her left hand suggests she was encouraged to write with her right hand, which was encouraged at the time.
Other famous left-handed people include several politicians and famed persons.
Several past prime ministers including David Cameron and Winston Churchill were left-handed.
In addition, five out of the last eight US presidents have been left-handed including Barack Obama, Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton.
David Bowie and Jimi Hendrix also played and wrote with their left hands.
