Queen Elizabeth II: 30 Fascinating Facts About the UK's Longest-Ruling Monarch

Editor’s note: Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-serving British monarch, passed away after reigning for seven decades at the age of 96. According to an announcement made on September 8, 2022, via the Royal Family's official site, "The Queen passed away tranquilly at Balmoral today." It further stated, "The King and The Queen Consort will stay at Balmoral tonight before returning to London tomorrow." The Reader’s Digest The team extends their sympathies to the royal family and everyone in Britain during this moment, as they pay tribute to her life and heritage.

The queen of hearts

Princess Elizabeth had never anticipated ascending to the throne. Despite being next in line for the crown, she did not envision having to take up the duties of a monarch anytime soon. However, following her father’s premature death, this changed drastically. young Queen Elizabeth took the throne at just 25 years old, dedicating her entire life, “whether it be long or short,” in service to her country. As it turns out, it was the former, and Queen Elizabeth II ruled for 70 years, until her death On September 8, 2022. When she passed away, she was possibly more cherished than ever before—such was the extent that numerous individuals prefer not to contemplate this loss. What occurs next following the death of the Queen? or her funeral . Find out- Where is Queen Elizabeth interred? .

Even if you have encountered it before The Crown In the Netflix show about her life, you likely aren't aware of the true tale surrounding this notoriously reserved monarch. There’s an obscure backstory hidden beneath her public persona. royal family tree , the genuine love story of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip , along with all the delightful specifics about Queen Elizabeth’s grandchildren Let's delve deeper into the life and rule of Queen Elizabeth II.

She was born in the city of London.

Elizabeth came into this world on April 21, 1926, within the walls of 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, London, not far from Berkeley Square. At birth, she held the position of being the third in line for the crown, following behind her Uncle Edward, who was known as the Prince of Wales, and her Father, Albert—the Duke of York. Named after her mother, the Duchess of York—also referred to as Elizabeth—Princess Elizabeth spent some part of her childhood living with her family first at 145 Piccadilly in central London, then later at White Lodge situated inside Richmond Park on the periphery of London. As a young girl, future queen When she turned four, her sister, Margaret, came into the world; and at the age of six, the family relocated to Royal Lodge within Windsor Great Park for their countryside residence. The members of her family were quite united, and despite having a privileged existence, her daily life remained fairly serene.

Her dad took the crown following a controversy.

Everything changed when Queen Elizabeth’s father In 1936, Queen Elizabeth’s uncle ascended to the throne as King Edward VIII, though his rule spanned only about a year without him ever being officially crowned," clarifies historian, writer, and ex-BBC News producer Tony McMahon. "Edward relinquished the crown in December after deciding to wed Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée, which sparked considerable debate." The issue escalated because Simpson remained legally hitched to her second spouse during their affair, intensifying public uproar. Consequently, this event led to what would be recorded as one of the most significant political upheavals within Britain’s contemporary monarchy. As per protocol following Edward's abdication, his sibling stepped into the role of monarch—King George VI—who then became Elizabeth’s father.

Elizabeth suddenly found herself next in line for the crown.

For Elizabeth herself, the abdication and the events that followed were particularly royal family scandal altered the trajectory of her existence irreversibly. 'George’s child Elizabeth immediately assumed the position of heir apparent,' explains McMahon. 'Every action she took henceforth would come under intense political examination and public observation.' However, her early education equipped her to handle this shift gracefully. 'The concept of 'duty' isn't commonly discussed these days, yet Elizabeth carried this principle within her since childhood—a value her mother referred to as le devoir ", the responsibility you have towards yourself and the world around you," states Bryan Kozlowski, who authored the book. Long Live the Queen: 23 Guidelines for Life from Britain’s Longest-Ruling Monarch . And because she was a girl, Elizabeth had to undertake tasks that were not necessarily enjoyable or agreeable, such as touring hospitals or enduring long, dull ceremonies. These experiences proved invaluable in preparing her for her eventual role as queen.

She never attended school.

Princess Elizabeth never went to a public or private school, nor does she hold a college degree; in reality, one of her notable aspects is that she lacks formal educational credentials like a university diploma. things you might not have known about the UK monarchy Is that Elizabeth’s grandson, Prince William, became the first member of the royal family? not To begin their studies at the palace, some royal children followed this path. However, Elizabeth received her education through private tutors at home. "Princess Elizabeth underwent homeschooling, which was standard practice for royalty during those times," explains McMahon. "Henry Marten, who served as the Vice-Provost of Eton College, instructed Elizabeth in constitutional history to ready her for her eventual duties as sovereign. He coached his protégé about both the authority and constraints involved in serving as a contemporary queen." Additionally, the Archbishop of Canterbury tutored her in religious subjects, and she mastered French under the guidance of her French and Belgian caretakers. Her fluency in French proved invaluable when interacting with international heads of state throughout her reign. Moreover, Elizabeth delved into arts and music and excelled as a competitive swimmer.

She was a Girl Scout and participated as a Sea Ranger.

Princess Elizabeth, who had an affinity for outdoor pursuits, began her training in survival skills through the Girl Guides, which is similar to the Girl Scouts in the UK. Her mother supported this organization from early on and signed up Princess Elizabeth at the age of 11, alongside her sister, Princess Margaret. According to McMahon, "To interact with peers her own age, Elizabeth became part of the Girl Guides via a specialized unit known as the 1st Buckingham Palace Company." In a photograph taken in 1943, one can observe Princess Elizabeth demonstrating her bandaging abilities on her younger sibling. Additionally, she participated in the Sea Rangers, where young women learn about sailing and various aquatic activities.

She participated in World War II and slipped away from the palace on VE Day.

For those wondering What exactly do members of the British royal family accomplish? Their initial responsibilities frequently involve serving in the armed forces. Regarding Elizabeth, her involvement with the Girl Guides and Sea Rangers helped prepare her for this type of duty. "Notably, she enlisted in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II," McMahon explains, "where she contributed to boosting spirits amid the bombings." At age 18 in 1944, she enrolled and performed tasks as both a mechanic and a truck driver. This experience distinguishes her as the sole currently living reigning monarch who participated in World War II, and also marks her as the lone woman within the royal lineage to join the military ranks.

Remarkably, Princess Elizabeth's ATS uniform enabled her to blend into the crowd on the streets of London alongside her sister, Margaret, during Victory in Europe (VE) Day celebrations on May 8, 1945. In 1985, she recounted these recollections to the BBC: "We were extremely worried about being identified," Elizabeth recalled, "so I wore my military cap low over my face." She remembered cheering with the king and queen from the palace balcony before spending hours wandering through the city. "People formed long lines, holding hands as they moved down Whitehall together," she stated, "all carried away by waves of joy and relief... It remains one of the most unforgettable evenings of my existence."

When she was just a young teen, she developed feelings for her far-off cousin.

Elizabeth initially laid her eyes on Prince Philip Her third cousin came into her life again when she was only 8; however, according to her royal biography, they officially crossed paths for the first time during the 1934 wedding of shared kin. Their genuine encounter happened some years after this initial introduction. "Elizabeth's bond with Prince Philip had the charm of a fairytale romance from the start," notes Nicoletta Gullace, an associate professor specializing in modern British history at the University of New Hampshire. "It wasn’t until 1939, when Elizabeth visited the Royal Naval College alongside her family as a mere 13-year-old, that she truly encountered—and reportedly developed feelings for—the dashing young cadet named Philip." Ms. Gullace continues, "'As Prince of Greece and Denmark,' recounts historical records, 'Prince Philip engaged Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret in playful activities such as croquet matches and showcased his physical skills by leaping over a tennis net.' Witnesses noted how captivated Elizabeth seemed throughout these demonstrations, which were further confirmed by her governess’ account of his confident displays."

Following this, they corresponded with one another and met from time to time, according to Gullace. "It’s well known that Elizabeth prominently displayed a picture of a bearded Philip during his service as a navy officer in the Mediterranean and the Pacific during World War II," she explains. "Their interactions became more frequent post-war."

Her family wasn't completely thrilled about Philip.

According to Elizabeth's family, Philip wasn't exactly considered the perfect match for the future queen. "The royal family didn't fully endorse Philip due to his impoverished royal lineage—he and his kin had fled Greece—and their worry about his brothers-in-law who sided with the Nazis," explains Gullace. "There was also an impression that he appeared 'too German.' The Queen Mother notoriously called him 'the Hun.'" Nonetheless, having fought in World War II under the Royal Navy banner, concerns over his lower nobility status aside, they allowed the couple to get engaged in July 1947.

The straightforward explanation behind their union was that Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip developed feelings for each other. As stated by Gullace, once their betrothal received approval, he was granted permission to acquire British citizenship and adopted the last name Mountbatten.

She used coupons to pay for her wedding dress.

In 1947, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip got married just after the UK emerged from World War II and was still dealing with rationing restrictions—even members of the royal family were subject to these rules. As Gullace explains, "Elizabeth wore an outfit crafted under wartime conditions using rations." This demonstrates how popular she was because many young women across Britain donated their personal ration coupons so she could have a stunning dress. Although exchanging such coupons wasn’t allowed, this act amidst widespread shortages highlights that Princess Elizabeth enjoyed great affection among Britons even at a tender age.
Moreover, disaster struck moments before the wedding when her tiara snapped; fortunately, skilled hands managed to repair it promptly.

Her marriage ceremony in 1947 marked a significant event in British history.

Following six years of warfare, England craved a joyful moment, something the regal nuptials offered. "Elizabeth's wedding mirrored, on a larger scale, those of numerous young women who tied the knot post-war with their service members whom they had cherished, worried about, and stood beside throughout the struggle," explains Gullace. She mentions that the pair exchanged vows in November 1947 at Westminster Abbey in front of approximately 2,500 spectators, adding that the festivities were aired via radio. "There was a banquet held at Buckingham Palace where they relished an impressive nine-feet-tall wedding confection; moreover, they greeted the crowd afterward from the renowned terrace, thus inaugurating this marital custom," states Gullace. "Princess Elizabeth exuded sheer bliss, and reportedly Prince Philip cut quite a dashing figure—handsome beyond compare like any leading man seen on screen." Images captured during these celebrations went on to become iconic photographs. Most famous images from royal weddings throughout history.

She had four children

After getting married, Elizabeth quickly had two children. Similar to numerous couples during that era, they promptly began a family; Prince Charles was born just one year following their wedding in 1948, followed by another child soon after. Princess Anne Two years afterward, according to Gullace, they began their life together in a manner relatable to typical individuals. During this time, Prince Philip remained an officer in the Royal Navy, and Elizabeth embraced her role as his naval spouse. They lived together in Malta whenever he was assigned to the Mediterranean fleet.

Elizabeth's two younger offspring, Princes Andrew and Edward, came along in 1960 and 1964 respectively—well after she had managed to acclimate herself to assuming a responsibility she hadn't anticipated taking on quite so early in her life. These two princes were notably the first royal children to be born during their sovereign’s reign since those of Queen Victoria back in the 1800s.

Elizabeth ascended to the throne at merely 25 years of age.

On February 6, 1952, Elizabeth was in Kenya for a royal visit with Philip when her father passed away at just 56 years old due to lung cancer and prolonged periods of ill health. "While on an enchanting journey through a wildlife sanctuary in Kenya with Prince Philip, the princess received news about her father's passing and her new role as monarch," explains Gullace. British hunter Jim Corbett, who was lodging nearby in one of the park’s elevated huts, noted in the guest book: 'This marks the first instance where a young woman ascended into this treetop cabin as a princess and descended the following day as a queen.'" Unaware of these developments until later, Queen Elizabeth remained among those informed last about becoming queen; upon learning the truth, she was so shocked that she promptly headed back to England.

Elizabeth adapted to the change more effectively than Philip.

The blissful initial period for the young couple abruptly ceased following the demise of Elizabeth's father. This event propelled Elizabeth into becoming queen and disrupted Philip's naval career since he needed to pledge loyalty to Elizabeth and assume the position of royal consort, according to Gullace. Despite adding pressure to their relationship, both Elizabeth and Philip adhered steadfastly to their duties. Although it was Philip rather than Elizabeth who resisted the transformation, they proceeded nonetheless, albeit with conflicting emotions possibly weighing upon them.

Although the princess was unprepared for ascending to the throne so rapidly, she adjusted to the circumstances with characteristic composure. As Gullace points out, "Elizabeth coped with her early ascension to queenship by accepting her fate and leaning on her inherent dedication to serving her people." She took the mantle with remarkable poise and elegance, even though this transition meant disrupting what had been the most joyful period of her life when she and her small family led a simple existence as part of a regular military household in Malta.

The crowning of Queen Elizabeth was both contemporary and classic.

Initially, Elizabeth's marriage ceremony captured everyone's attention, soon followed by her crowning as key events marking the era following World War II. She took over the crown immediately upon her father's death; however, due to customary bereavement periods, the formal coronation typically occurs several months later once the preceding ruler has passed away. Her grand event happened on June 2, 1953. As stated by Gullace, "Coronations have taken place at Westminster Abbey for nine centuries, and Queen Elizabeth II continued this enduring custom." Despite maintaining traditional pomp and circumstance, she represented a contemporary form of royalty with her coronation broadcasted live to an audience of around 27 million people within the UK alone, along with countless others across the Commonwealth nations. The queen adorned herself during the occasion using two iconic headpieces: Saint Edward’s Crown and the Imperial State Crown. The British Crown Jewels that have immense value .

She was a laid-back parent.

Although Queen Elizabeth may not have been affectionate, she was certainly not an indifferent parent, contrary to how some portray her. Her new position as monarch frequently required her to be away from her offspring. "Due to Queen Elizabeth's demanding schedule, which left little room for spending extensive time with her kids, particularly her first two children—Charles and Anne—it became quite challenging," explains Carolyn Harris, a historian and writer known for her work on royal families. Raising Royals: A Millennium of Royal Upbringing . For those who are curious, her responsibilities, What are the responsibilities of the Queen of England? , encompassed comprehensive visits to nations across the expansive Commonwealth. Additionally, there was the issue of the children’s schooling. "Once the children got older, Queen Elizabeth and particularly Prince Philip believed it was crucial for them to attend school alongside their peers instead of receiving private instruction at home," explains Harris. "Consequently, the young royals spent most of the year at boarding schools." However, this arrangement had some drawbacks for Prince Charles, who did not enjoy his time at boarding school.

The Windsor family maintained a tight-knit relationship.

Elizabeth's upbringing emphasized a deep connection within the family unit, just as much as her own children experienced, despite often being apart from one another. According to Harris, "Images and footage show that whenever the royal clan gathered, they relished vacations at both Balmoral and Sandringham. During these times, the Queen and Prince Philip made sure to spend meaningful moments with their kids." In a 2002 BBC conversation, Princess Anne echoed this sentiment: "As young ones, perhaps we weren't overly insistent about our needs, understanding the constraints imposed by time and duties required of her as queen—travels and tasks included. Yet, none of us ever doubted for an instant that she loved us like any ordinary mother would."

She was blessed with 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

The queen showcased her gentle demeanor through how lovingly she cared for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. "The Queen cherished having her large family around her, particularly her grandchildren who have only had wonderful things to say about her," states Harris. Among these descendants are Prince Charles’s offspring, Princes William and Harry; Princess Anne’s progeny, Peter Phillips and Zara Tindall; Prince Andrew’s girls, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie; as well as Prince Edward’s brood, consisting of Louise and James.
"Queen Elizabeth instilled in her grandchildren her passion for equestrian activities and enjoying outdoor pursuits," notes Harris. Additionally, "she took part in guiding Prince William towards his eventual royal duties by frequently inviting him for afternoon tea at Windsor Castle when he attended school closeby at Eton."

Regarding the queen’s great-grandchildren, Prince William has three kids (Prince George, Prince Louis, and Princess Charlotte). Prince Harry has two (Archie and Lilibet), Peter Phillips also has two (Savannah and Isla), Zara Tindall has three (Mia, Lena, and Lucas), Princess Eugenie has one named August, and similarly, Princess Beatrice has one called Sienna. Did you get all of this? Should clarification be needed, consult the reference material. entire royal family tree , detailed in a single straightforward chart.

Her yearly Christmas address was a customary event.

For many British families, tuning into Queen Elizabeth’s yearly Christmas TV address became an established custom on December 25th. These broadcasts allowed the queen to preserve a feeling of intimacy with her subjects. "The Christmas message stands out as one of the occasions where the Queen speaks directly to the citizens of the UK and the Commonwealth, sharing her thoughts about the past year," explains Harris. Moreover, this practice upheld a longstanding English ritual through each consecutive speech. As Harris points out, "Queen Elizabeth’s grandfather, King George V, initiated the tradition of delivering a Christmas message via radio back in 1932, instilling in his granddaughter a profound commitment to duty and public service." It was under Queen Elizabeth II that this custom evolved further when she presented Britain with its inaugural televised Christmas message in 1957.

She wasn't the wealthiest individual in Britain.

Despite her considerable impact, Queen Elizabeth was not the richest individual in the United Kingdom. What was the actual net worth of the queen? could be fewer than anticipated. Despite undoubtedly living in a privileged world, she did not make an appearance in the UK’s Sunday Times The 2021 ranking of the top 250 wealthiest individuals in the nation. As reported by the Times , her personal assets were valued at approximately $480 million at that time; Forbes Estimated at around $500 million, which is significantly less than the combined wealth of the 2,674 billionaires featured on that magazine’s 2021 rich list. A substantial portion of the Queen's fortune originated fromprivate earnings derivedfrom her various properties and lands. However, taxpayers fundthe costs associated with the monarch's official responsibilities. Forbes suggests that figure is significantly lower compared to the economic and tourist benefits the royal family brings to the nation.

She marked her birthday two times every year.

Queen Elizabeth had her genuine birthday celebration privately on April 21 and later held another public event in June. This dual observance stems from "the modern tradition [that] boasts quite prestigious roots," explains Hughes. It merges an old British military practice known as 'Trooping the Colour,' initiated under Charles II around the 1660s, with the formal acknowledgment of the reigning monarch's birthdate, which commenced in 1748 for King George II. The term "'Colors'" refers to banners or flags serving as clear markers during battles; according to Hughes, these military processions started honoring the ruler’s birthday formally back in 1760.

As for the June date, “the modern custom of an additional summer birthday for the monarch can be traced back to the Queen’s great-grandfather, King Edward VII, who was born in November,” says Gavin Hughes, director of the Irish Conflict Archaeology Network at the Centre for Medieval & Renaissance Studies at Trinity College Dublin. “As the weather in Britain is generally temperamental around this time, the ‘Trooping of the Colour’ was moved back to the summer to mark the official birthday and accommodate the large crowds who turned up to view it.”

She went by several aliases.

Queen Elizabeth’s complete name is Elizabeth Alexandra Mary. However, before she became Queen and was still Princess Elizabeth, her close relatives affectionately referred to her as Lilibet—a term derived from her difficulty in pronouncing her own name during childhood. This is also the reason behind Meghan and Prince Harry naming their daughter after this nickname. Her Majesty’s spouse, Prince Philip, often used this endearing moniker for her. Cabbage Then there are her great-grandchildren. When Prince George was around two and a half years old, he referred to her as "Gan-Gan," according to his mother, Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge, who mentioned this in a documentary. The Queen at Ninety .

She got dressed with intent.

"From the time she got out of bed, nearly all the choices she made were acts of service, such as picking that day's attire and umbrella shade, ensuring they would make her easily noticeable in throngs," explains Kozlowski. The queen has sported hues ranging across the spectrum—from yellows, oranges, purples, and blues to neon outfits. "For people to exclaim 'I spotted the queen,' she must catch their eye," remarked her daughter-in-law, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, in the documentary. The Queen at 90 Don't overlook the fact that whenever she appears, the crowd gathers densely, reaching depths of two, three, four, ten, or even fifteen people thick, with everyone wanting to be able to claim they spotted a glimpse of the queen's hat as she passed by.

She adored dogs.

We've all witnessed the famous depictions: Elizabeth alongside her beloved corgis. However, have you grasped the true depth of this affection? Queen Elizabeth’s corgis She got her first dog, Susan, as a birthday gift upon turning 18. Over the years, she had at least 30 Pembroke Welsh Corgis, all descendants of Susan, with the last one being named Willow, who passed away in 2018. Additionally, she has also owned other types of dogs, including "dorgis"—hybrids created from crossing corgis with dachshunds. According to Harris, "the Queen cherished moments spent with her dogs and enjoyed taking them on lengthy walks across the royal properties."

She made light of her age.

If you're not convinced that even the formally dressed monarch could have a humorous side, then you clearly haven't witnessed Queen Elizabeth delivering an astute comeback. For instance, during the introduction at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in 2015, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau respectfully remarked, "I am profoundly aware of your majesty’s extensive and dedicated service." Upon taking the stage, she dryly responded, "Thank you, Mr. Prime Minister of Canada, for reminding me how ancient I must seem." This spontaneous comment drew hearty laughter from those present, according to reports. The Official Website of the Royal Family Elizabeth wholeheartedly adopted the 'U-bend of life' theory favored by longevity experts: growing increasingly happy, carefree, and content as she aged," explains Kozlowski. "In this aspect, she mirrored her centenarian mother, who reached 101 years old and often told those younger than herself that 'life becomes far more enjoyable after turning 80.'

She performed in a James Bond sequence.

The cheerful monarch appeared alongside Daniel Craig in a light-hearted sketch for the opening ceremony of the 2012 London Olympics. This detail comes from royal dresser Angela Kelly’s book. On the Flipside of the Coin: The Queen, Her Valet, and the Closet The director wondered if he could utilize her appearance, to which Elizabeth replied that she wished to be part of the production herself and even demanded a speaking role. "I enquired if she preferred saying 'Good evening, James' or 'Good evening, Mr. Bond,'" Kelly noted. She opted for the latter, being aware of the Bond film series. During the performance, following the departure of both the queen and James Bond from Buckingham Palace via helicopter, an actual helicopter flew overhead at the Olympic stadium where the queen seemed to leap out but delegated this action to a professional stunt performer instead.

She only gave one sit-down interview in her entire reign

Even with many unanswered questions regarding her private life and familial background, along with significant tragedies such as colonialism , Queen Elizabeth II frequently found herself embroiled in various controversies. Nevertheless, she seldom granted press interviews. "This has undoubtedly been one of her most remarkable feats," remarks Kozlowski. "Through each familial and political upheaval she endured, the urge to share 'her perspective' with journalists must have been overwhelming. Yet, coming from an era where they firmly believe in the adage, 'Least said, soonest mended,' the queen subscribes to the idea that silence often allows time to mend wounds far better than any provocative statement or spontaneous social media post." On occasion though, she deviated from this custom to deliver the BBC Her initial seated television interview in 2018, coinciding with the 65-year mark since her coronation.

The Queen initially shared her first post on Instagram back in 2019.

To avoid being seen as outdated, Queen Elizabeth maintained an engaged presence on social media platforms. She also made headlines when she uploaded her inaugural post on Instagram using the official account. @theroyalfamily In 2019, during her visit to the Science Museum in London, she combined the traditional elements with modern ones by sharing a picture of an 1843 letter written by Charles Babbage—the world's pioneering computer scientist—to Prince Albert, Queen Victoria’s consort and someone deeply invested in advancements in science. She expressed, "It gave me joy today to discover programs aimed at teaching kids how to code. It feels right to share this Instagram update here at the Science Museum—a place that has always promoted technological developments and sparked creativity among future innovators." The message concluded with "Elizabeth R." Back in 2014, Her Majesty made history when she sent her inaugural tweet from within the same museum.

However, the queen’s plea relied on custom.

While it’s enjoyable to imagine Queen Elizabeth on Twitter, her popularity stems from the deep affection and loyalty she commands due to representing English heritage—a factor that might also underpin this admiration. Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana The individual who enjoyed immense popularity yet embraced contemporary trends found themselves at odds. "Queen Elizabeth's most significant strength lay less in her embrace of modernity than in her link to the past—the monarchy's adherence to traditions, her profound sense of responsibility towards both Britons and citizens across the Commonwealth, along with her voluntary service during World War II, all tie her closely to pivotal chapters in Britain's historical narrative," explains Gullace. "Although Prince Philip notably sought to update the royal household by inviting television crews and showcasing their domestic life publicly, I believe that Queen Elizabeth, particularly later in her reign, provided comfort through her deep-rooted ties to customs, heritage, and previous grandeur."

She was the longest-reigning married British monarch.

Alongside the queen throughout their journey was her husband, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, who passed away in April 2021 at the age of 99. Queen Elizabeth was the first British sovereign to mark her 60-year "diamond wedding" celebration in 2007; they were wedded for a total of 73 years. According to Harris, during their Golden [50th] Anniversary, the queen referred to Prince Philip as her 'rock.' She typically brought him along when traveling abroad. Besides supporting her in official engagements, he also offered a contrasting yet complementary presence to the queen’s persona. As stated by Harris, "Prince Philip's jovial nature and extroverted character provided balance to the queen's quieter disposition." He advocated for updating traditions within the monarchy—like broadcasting the coronation ceremony via television—or allowing documentaries into the day-to-day operations of the royals, whereas Elizabeth upheld traditional values. Over decades, theirs grew into an emblematic union celebrated for its steadfastness, warmth, and shared regard, according to Gullace.

She ruled as queen for almost seven decades.

On February 6, 2017, Queen Elizabeth II achieved the remarkable milestone of becoming the first British sovereign to rule for 65 years, commemorating her Sapphire Jubilee. This historic event was celebrated with special editions of coins, stamps, artillery salutes, along with a newly released photograph captured by renowned British photographer David Bailey. In this image, the Queen wears a set of sapphire jewelry presented to her as a wedding present from her late father, King George VI, back in 1947. As Britain’s longest-serving monarch, she further cemented her legacy during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations held between June 2nd and 5th, 2022. Should you be curious about these events, What occurs next with King Charles III ascending to the throne? The response is clear: Following the queen will prove challenging. "Prince Charles will find it extremely difficult to succeed her because his mother's long-standing presence and deep connection to British history contribute significantly to her popularity," explains Gullace. Nonetheless, out of respect for the queen, we must adjust to this shift, much like she adapted numerous times throughout her illustrious rule.

Sources:

• The Official Website of the Royal Family Queen Elizabeth II
• The Official Website of the Royal Family Journal of occurrences during The Queen’s early years
• The Official Website of the Royal Family : “Swan Upping”
• The Official Website of the Royal Family 50 Facts About the Queen's Coronation
• The Official Instagram Account of the Royal Family : Science Museum post