As an American, I have a certain fascination with the Royal family the way most other Americans do. Maybe it's because we don't have a Royal family of our own, or maybe it's because we want to escape the politics of our own country. Either way, reading about the lives of the Royals plays into our fantasies about being a prince or a princess, and it has an almost magical appeal.

However, it is clear that the institution of the Royal family can be out of touch with the modern age at times, and still has rules that feel like something from the Victorian Era. For the Monarchy to achieve longevity in the modern age, it is imperative that they modernize to become an institution that younger generations can both connect with and understand. For this to happen, outdated protocols and etiquette need to evolve, and I think Meghan Markle will help this change take place.

Most people that marry into the Royal family come from aristocracy themselves and are already familiar with how the Monarchy works. The late Princess Diana, for example, was first known as Lady Diana Spencer and spent a lot of time at the various palaces of the Queen. Even Kate Middleton, who came from a middle-class family, was British and was familiar with the culture that she was marrying into.

Meghan Markle, on the other hand, is American, bi-racial and completely self-made. Educated at Northwestern University and rising to stardom in a very successful television show, Suits, she achieved the American Dream by aiming high and working hard.

In addition to her acting career, Meghan Markle has been an activist for women's rights since she was in grade school. She has championed for causes that she believes in and has always made her opinion heard. This boldness probably comes as a shock to the royal family, and it is certainly not what they are used to.

Royal wives have historically been demure, quiet and homemakers. In fact, one of the strict rules for all Royals is to stay completely neutral when it comes to politics. Meghan's political opinions certainly break from the steadfast tradition of remaining unbiased when it comes to such issues.

My hope is that Meghan Markle's modern style and personality can breathe some new life into the Royal family, and help them transition into the 21st century. This change is already happening, with the rising popularity of Prince William and Kate Middleton. These Royal couples are coming together to help noble causes such as mental health and homelessness, and are bridging the gap between the Royals and everyday people. Meghan Markle will only help with this change, and will make the Monarchy an institution that is fit for 2018.