Official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, 1958
1952 - 2022

Elizabeth II

Queen Elizabeth II, born on 21 April 1926, was the longest-reigning monarch in British history, serving from 1952 until her death in 2022. Her reign spanned seven decades, witnessing monumental changes in the United Kingdom and the world, from post-war recovery through to the digital age. Elizabeth's era saw the decolonisation of Africa, the accession of the UK to the European Union and later its departure, and significant social and technological advances. She was renowned for her sense of duty and her role in modernising the monarchy, maintaining its relevance in contemporary society. Her tenure was also marked by a dedication to numerous charitable causes and a strong commitment to the Commonwealth of Nations, reflecting her belief in the importance of unity and tradition.

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