So there were numerous ways and chances for younger sons to obtain thrones. But dynasties no longer branch out, life expectancies have improved, and succession laws have expanded to be more inclusive. So spares no longer expect to succeed: only heirs -- and direct heirs at that.
With all the drama surrounding second sons (Belgium, Denmark, UK) I think the decision of Queen Beatrix (and perhaps also Princess Juliana to some extent) should be applauded.
From what I gather, she and the late Prince Claus, always made it clear to the two younger sons that they should find a fulfilling job/ life outside the RF.
As an outsider, I think this has led to a much normal (and healthy) family dynamic where 'the spare' is not jealous of all the attention the heir gets. And a situation where the spare gets pushed aside by nieces and nephews (children of the heir) also does not cause bad blood.
Hopefully (and from what I read it seems so) the present generation of royal parents to (young) children takes note and will allow and even stimulate their younger children to shape their own lives away from the crown.
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