Queen Elizabeth II has died

Published 9th September 2022

Queen Elizabeth has died peacefully at Balmoral yesterday afternoon aged 96 after 70 years on the throne. Tributes have been flowing as the country enters an extended period of national mourning.

The Union Jack has been lowered to half-mast last night and gun salutes and bells will ring out across the country. Crowds have gathered outside Buckingham Palace to pay their respects.

The Queen was born on 21 April 1926 as Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary in London, the first child of Prince Albert, Duke of York (later King George VI), and his wife, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. Her father acceded to the throne on 11 December 1936, and she became heir apparent on his accession.

She was the world's longest-serving female head of state and the oldest reigning monarch. She is the second-longest reigning monarch in world history. French King Louis XIV remains in the top spot, having served as monarch for more than 72 years after taking the throne at age four and dying in 1715.

Queen Elizabeth II influenced entertainment to the arts and surprised all by showing up for appearances such as her famous inclusion in the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games with James Bond, played by Daniel Craig. She also had her recent Platinum Party with Paddington Bear at the Royale Palace.

The Queen has never wavered in her duty and in a position that was thrust upon her at the young age of just 25. Her eldest son has become King Charles III. The King and Queen Consort stayed at Balmoral last night and will return to London this morning. No date has been set for his coronation.