Queen Elizabeth II is the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms. She is the longest-reigning monarch in British history and has held the throne since 1952. She has ruled for an astonishing seven decades, providing strength, stability, and continuity for her realms and inspiring people around the world with her incredible commitment to public service.
A Definitive Symbol of British History
Queen Elizabeth II is a symbol of British history and culture. Her reign has witnessed remarkable changes in the United Kingdom and its former colonies, including the end of the British Empire, the creation of the Commonwealth of Nations, the transition to a multicultural society, the devolution of the United Kingdom, and membership in the European Union. During her reign, she has represented the unity of the United Kingdom and its many diverse communities. She embodies the nation’s core values—stoicism, respect, pride, and tolerance.
Early Life and Coronation
Elizabeth Alexandra Mary was born on April 21, 1926, in London, England. She was the first child of Prince Albert and Princess Elizabeth, Duke and Duchess of York. At the time of her birth, her grandfather King George V was on the throne, and her father was second in line for the crown. Elizabeth’s early life was marked by the traumas of World War II, which forced her family to flee to Windsor Castle for safety. In 1944, Elizabeth made her first public speech in years, on the BBC’s Children’s Hour program, in which she promised to dedicate herself to the service of her people.
Elizabeth assumed the throne after the death of her father in 1952, when she was 25 years old. Her coronation on June 2, 1953, was a huge event. Millions of people around the world watched the ceremony on television and heard her famous words, “I, Elizabeth the Second, do swear.”
An Icon of International Diplomacy
Queen Elizabeth II has represented her nation with poise, grace, and integrity throughout her reign. She has visited many countries in her official capacity, including Germany, Canada, India, Saudi Arabia, Zimbabwe, and the United States. In total, she has made more than 260 state and official visits since her coronation.
In her role as a diplomat, the Queen has helped to broker many agreements between countries and consolidate peace. Her personal qualities of wisdom, understanding, and empathy have been key to her success.
The Queen has also welcomed many foreign dignitaries to the United Kingdom, including four United States presidents, three Popes, and three German Chancellors. She is the only British monarch to have received all three of those titles in the same lifetime.
Unwavering Commitment to Public Service
Throughout her seven decades on the throne, Queen Elizabeth II has been a tireless champion of public service. She has supported numerous charitable organizations and initiatives, celebrating kindness, compassion, and social progress. She has met with thousands of people from all walks of life, including victims of natural disasters, wounded soldiers, activists, innovators, and leaders in the arts and sciences.
The Queen has also seen the creation of many new organizations and initiatives over the course of her reign. These include the Youth Opportunity Movement, a national program for young people; the Duke of Edinburgh Award, encouraging youth to participate in sports, volunteering work, and community service; and the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Trust, a charitable foundation supporting global causes.
Legacy and Final Years
Queen Elizabeth II has had a lasting legacy as a monarch of extraordinary commitment and tremendous accomplishments. As the longest-reigning monarch in British history, she has given her people 70 years of stability and continuity.
After a lifetime of service, Her Majesty stepped down from many official duties in 2017. Although she is no longer taking an active role in affairs of state, she will remain a symbol of the United Kingdom’s heritage and values, and an inspiration to those who wish to serve their communities and the world. There is no doubt that her reign will remain one of the most remarkable in British history.