Queen Elizabeth II

Elizabeth II, born Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, was the Queen of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms from 6 February 1952 until her death in 2022. Her reign, extending over 70 years, stands as the longest for any British monarch and the second longest of any sovereign monarch in history. Born in London, she was the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Elizabeth became heir presumptive at age 10 after her father ascended the throne. She served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II and married Philip Mountbatten in 1947, with whom she had four children: Charles, Anne, Andrew, and Edward.

Elizabeth’s rule witnessed significant changes such as the decolonisation of Africa, the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and the evolution of the Commonwealth. She was a constitutional monarch through major political changes, including the UK’s entry and later withdrawal from the European Communities. Elizabeth saw her realms vary in number as territories gained independence and some became republics. Her leadership was marked by numerous historic visits, state events, and her consistent popularity. She died at Balmoral Castle in 2022 and was succeeded by her eldest son, Charles III.