As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, Queen Elizabeth II was the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms. Born on April 21, 1926, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary became queen on February 6, 1952, following the death of her father, King George VI. Here are some key details about Queen Elizabeth II:
1. Coronation:
Queen Elizabeth II's coronation took place on June 2, 1953, at Westminster Abbey in London. It was a significant event attended by dignitaries from around the world.
2. Longest-Reigning British Monarch:
In 2015, Queen Elizabeth II surpassed the record of her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, becoming the longest-reigning British monarch.
3. Family:
Queen Elizabeth II married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on November 20, 1947. The couple had four children: Charles, Prince of Wales; Anne, Princess Royal; Prince Andrew, Duke of York; and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.
4. Prince Philip:
The Duke of Edinburgh, Queen Elizabeth II's husband, passed away on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99.
5. Heirs:
Prince Charles, the eldest son of Queen Elizabeth II, is the heir apparent. He has the title of Prince of Wales. The line of succession also includes Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, and his children.
6. Role and Duties:
As a constitutional monarch, Queen Elizabeth II's role is largely ceremonial. She performs various duties, including the State Opening of Parliament, the granting of royal assent to legislation, and the appointment of the Prime Minister.
7. Official Residences:
The Queen has several official residences, including Buckingham Palace in London, Windsor Castle in Berkshire, and the Palace of Holyrood house in Edinburgh.
8. Symbolic Head of the Commonwealth:
Queen Elizabeth II is the symbolic head of the Commonwealth, a voluntary association of 54 independent countries, many of which were former territories of the British Empire.
