If there’s one monarch who knows a thing or two about living a long and fruitful life, it’s Queen Elizabeth II. The 93-year-old has been the reigning queen of the United Kingdom for 67 years, making her the longest-serving British monarch in history. In that time, she’s seen fifteen British Prime Ministers come and go, survived a world war, and outlasted most of her contemporaries. Here’s a look at the incredible life of one of the world’s most famous women.
Elizabeth was born on April 21st, 1926 to parents Albert, Duke of York (later King George VI) and Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. She was named after her mother, while her father was nicknamed ‘Bertie’. Bertie was third in line to the throne behind his brother Edward VIII and Edward’s eldest son David.
In 1936, Edward VIII abdicated the throne in order to marry Wallis Simpson, a woman who was still married to her second husband at the time. This made Bertie king and Elizabeth heir apparent. Just a few months later, Bertie’s Father passed away from lung cancer making Elizabeth queen at just the age of 25.
Elizabeth has since gone on to have four children with her husband Prince Philip- Charles, Anne, Andrew, and Edward. She has also been a grandmother to eight grandchildren and a great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren with one on the way.
Throughout her time as queen, Elizabeth has seen fifteen British Prime Ministers come into office including Sir Winston Churchill, Tony Blair, Margaret Thatcher, and Theresa May.
Elizabeth is also known for her love of animals (she currently owns two corgis), strong sense of duty, and impeccable fashion sense. In 2012, she became Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and in 2015 she became the longest-reigning female monarch in world history.
Queen Elizabeth II is not only the longest-serving British monarch in history but also the longest-reigning female monarch in world history. In her 93 years, she has outlived most of her contemporaries and seen fifteen British Prime Ministers come into office. She is known for her impeccable fashion sense, love of animals (she currently owns two corgis), and strong sense of duty. Long may she reign!