Elizabeth the Second, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom, Canada and Her other Realms and Territories, Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022 after having served her country longer than any other monarch in its history. She took the throne in 1952 at the age of 25 after her father, King George VI, died suddenly. Some perspective for her reign can be found in the fact that Winston Churchill was Prime Minister at her coronation. She met every American President since Harry Truman save one.
To be Head of State over many of the most influential nations of the world throughout the tumultuous 20th century nearly defies imagination. While most modern Kings and Queens do not have the unilateral decision making powers we associate with them historically, Elizabeth proved the institution is not irrelevant over a lifetime of dedication. She embodied the ideal of a benevolent monarch and was a unifying force throughout the Commonwealth of Nations.
In her coronation speech she said, “Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust.” She succeeded.
