10 Fast Facts About the Late Queen Elizabeth II's Life
Queen Elizabeth II passed away Thursday afternoon at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. As the world mourns, here are 10 fast facts about the legendary monarch that may surprise you.
A Title Worthy of a Queen
The Queen’s official title was Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Her other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith.
Multiple Birthday Celebrations
Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926. The public often found it confusing to know when to celebrate her birthday, so it it celebrated either the first, second or third Saturday in June in Britain, with the government making the decision.
In Canada, it is celebrated Monday either on or before May 24, Queen Victoria’s birthday. In Australia, her birthday is celebrated on the second Monday of June. The Queen’s official birthday has always been celebrated in private with to those closest to her.
Two Crowns Are Better Than One
During her coronation, Queen Elizabeth II wore St. Edward’s Crown, which was made in 1661 and weighs almost 5 pounds. It is believed that the Queen switched to the Imperial State Crown after the ceremony due to it being lighter in weight.
They Called it Corgi Love
Queen Elizabeth II has always had a soft spot for Corgis. Over the years, she has owned more than 30. The Queen has been photographed with many of her dogs over the years, even dating back to 1936 when she was just 10 years old. She was also gifted a Corgi named Susan for her 18th birthday.
Oldest British Reigning Monarch
In 2016, Queen Elizabeth II became the longest-reigning monarch in the world after the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. On Feb. 6, 2022, she became the first British Monarch to reign for 70 years. She also became the second-longest reigning monarch in world history, only second to 17th century French King Louis XIV, who became king at the age of 4.
On the Small Screen
The Queen’s coronation was the first event to be televised, and the world’s first major international event broadcast on television. About 27 million people in the United Kingdom watched the ceremony.
Personal Alarm Clock
The Queen’s day would start at 9 a.m., with the royal bagpiper playing for 15 minutes outside of her window. This tradition was started in the mid-1800s by Elizabeth’s great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria. This reportedly took place at the queen’s residences at Buckingham Palace, Windsor, Holyroodhouse and her vacation home in Balmoral, Scotland.
Who Needs A License
Her Majesty is the only person in the U.K. who did not need to have a driver’s license in order to drive on public roads.
Elizabeth the Mimicker
While many believed that she was always serious, Queen Elizabeth II was known to have a mischievous sense of humor. During the Platinum Jubilee celebrations, the Queen starred in a comic video next to an animated Paddington Bear, speaking about hiding marmalade sandwiches in her purse.
Prince Charles Attended her Coronation
Prince Charles was the first child to witness his mother’s coronation as Sovereign. With the Queen’s passing, Prince Charles will attend the same ceremony, only this time he will be crowned King.
