On June 2nd, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated 62nd years since her coronation and has thus been the longest-serving monarch in British history. The ceremony took place at London’s iconic Westminster Abbey in 1953.
Throughout her reign she not only tended to all of her royal duties like a true professional but she also managed to raise her children and be adored by millions.
In honour of Queen Elizabeth’s phenomenal achievement we take a look at her life in pictures including her family, her amazing regal wardrobe and of course, her beloved pet corgis.
In celebration of Queen Elizabeth II 62nd year on the British throne, we take a look back at her life in pictures.
Born a princess
Queen Elizabeth II was the first young princess born to her parents Prince Albert, Duke of York (later King George VI), and his wife, Elizabeth, born on April 21, 1926.
Fashionably royal: The family never took a step out of line always look fantastic.
Crowned monarchs
When Elizabeth was born she was third in line to the throne, behind her uncle Edward and her father.
Elizabeth was never expected to become Queen as it was thought her uncle would have children. However, when her grandfather, the King, died her uncle Edward succeeded, only to abdicate later that year after he proposed marriage to divorced socialite Wallis Simpson. This sparked a constitutional crisis and Elizabeth’s father became king, making Elizabeth (front middle) next in line to the throne.
Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret grew up as the best of friends.
Growing up
Growing up Queen Elizabeth II was educated privately alongside her sister Margaret. During World War II in 1945, Elizabeth joined the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service. She trained as a driver and mechanic and drove a military truck. Today, she is the last surviving head of state who served in uniform during World War II.
Queen Elizabeth’s engagement
Elizabeth met Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark (the prince of both countries due to his father’s Danish heritage and his mother’s German heritage) in 1939. She was just 13-years-old and the pair fell in love instantly. They began to exchange letters between one another. The pair officially became engaged on July 9, 1947.
A royal wedding
They married on November 20, 1947 at Westminster Abbey.
The royal couple couldn’t be more in love. Prince Philip was always incredibly supportive of his wife and her duties to her nation.
Elizabeth’s coronation
Queen Elizabeth’s coronation ceremony took place on June 2, 1953 – she was just 27 years old.
Queen Elizabeth
She was a doting mother to her children.
The royals always made their children their priority.
The Queen always looks beautiful in her regal wear.
Queen Elizabeth shares a close bond with her children, Charles, Anne, Andrew and Edward.
Prince William’s Christening
Queen Elizabeth II poses for photos with her second eldest grandson Prince William, born to her son Prince Charles and his wife Diana Princess of Wales.
Queen Elizabeth is renowned for adoration of her beloved corgis.
Prince Charles and the Queen
Prince Charles kisses his mother on the hand after she awards him with a prize at a polo match in Windsor.
She may be British royalty, but the Queen happily rubs shoulders with Hollywood royalty. Here she is meeting Angelina Jolie.
Queen’s outfits
Throughout her 62 year reign, Queen Elizabeth II has become known for her bright and colourful outfits…
Like her husband, Queen Elizabeth has a wicked sense of humour. Here she shares a laugh with Kate Middleton.
After over 67 years of marriage, the Queen and Philip prove laughter in the best medicine. The Duke always puts a smile on his wife’s face.
And the Queen couldn’t be happier. In 2012 she said at the Diamond Jubilee, “Prince Philip is, I believe, well known for declining compliments of any kind. But throughout he has been a constant strength and guide.”
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