Queen Elizabeth II, the world’s longest reigning Monarch has died at the age of 96. Her unmistakable example of female power lives on. A power conceived during a time of gender bias. Her reign survived multiple wars, personal tragedies, and provided guidance in shaping not only Canada, but democracies around the world.

Elizabeth was born April 21, 1926 in Mayfair, London.  She was the first child born to the Duke and Duchess of York (later King George VI and Queen Elizbeth). In November 1947, she married Phillip Mountbatten.  The two first met when Elizabeth visited the Royal Navy College where Phillip was a cadet in training.   They celebrated 73 years of marriage together until his death in April 2021.  Together they had four children, Charles, Prince of Wales, Anne, Princess Royal, Prince Andrew Duke of York and Prince Edward Earl of Wessex.   Queen Elizabeth II has 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. 

 

When her father died in February 1952, Elizabeth—then 25 years old—became Queen, with her coronation taking place June 2, 1953.  Elizabeth has celebrated her Silver, Golden, Diamond and Platinum jubilees (1977, 2002, 2012 and 2022)   

 

This past February (6th), Her Majesty The Queen became the first British Monarch to celebrate a Platinum Jubilee; celebrating her 70 years of services to the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and the Commonwealth.   

 

Long live the Queen.  For forever Queen Elizabeth II shall live.