Remembering Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s Longest Serving Monarch
From a very important promise she made over seven decades ago to keeping close ties with the region’s royals and her impeccable sense of style, Bazaar Arabia looks back at a few of Her Majesty’s most memorable moments throughout her 70 years of service
HM Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning British monarch, having served her country for over 70 years, and the second longest reigning monarch in the world (after French King Louis XIV). She ascended the throne on February 6, 1952 after the death of her father, King George VI.
As the United Kingdom and Commonwealth mourn the loss of their sovereign, Bazaar Arabia looks back at a few of the most notable highlights from her 70 years of service.
Coming to Reign
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was just 25 years old when she came to the throne, with her three-year-old son Charles assuming the position of heir apparent. “I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong,” she had said when she turned 21, and just three years later she was called to duty.
Starring On-Screen
Although she never gave an official interview, Queen Elizabeth was one of the first to be beamed into homes at her coronation, held in Westminister Abbey in June 1953, which was televised. Since then, she was seen by her subjects every December during her annual festive chat, which became a Christmas tradition for most families; she marked her 50th speech by posting it on YouTube.
Regional Relationships
Given that Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and the UAE were protectorates, it wasn’t a surprise that the British monarchy had such close ties to the Middle East. Yet this close relationship continued till the end of the Queen’s life, with Her Majesty finding much in common both officially and personally – especially when it came to equestrian pursuits – with the royals of the region.
Celebrity Appearances
There was never any doubt who was the most famous, even when the Queen met some of the biggest names in the world – from the Apollo 11 astronauts who stopped at Buckingham Palace after their lunar visit (1969) to the Beatles (1965), Marilyn Monroe (the Queen, who was the same age as the icon was reportedly a big fan) to Charlie Chaplin who was knighted in 1975. When Madonna met Her Majesty at the premiere of Die Another Day in 2002, the monarch didn’t know who she was. When told that the material girl had sung the theme tune, she reportedly said: “Oh really, did you?”
Sense of Humour
The Queen allowed her subjects to see her fun-loving side on numerous occasions. She bonded with 007 during the London Olympics, took tea with Paddington Bear at her recent Platinum Jubilee, and danced with Nelson Mandela at the Royal Albert Hall. Her wit and humour were always a constant throughout her reign.
Family First
With eight grandchildren from her four children, and twelve great-grandchildren – Princess Beatrice’s daughter Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi just turned one – the queen’s clan has significantly expanded. Although some members like Prince William are firmly in the public eye and carry out royal duties, others like Prince Edward’s 14-year-old son James, Viscount Severn, live a low-profile life. Regardless, family always came first for this British monarch.
Time Well Spent in the Highlands
Tartan, tweed and silk scarves tied beneath the chin were Her Majesty’s casual attire and given the Queen’s love for Balmoral and Sandringham, her country estates, it’s what she felt most comfortable in. “Walks, picnics, dogs—a lot of dogs, there’s always dogs—and people coming in and out all the time,” Eugenie explained in the documentary Our Queen at Ninety of the royal getaways. The Queen often toured her estate on horseback, riding being another one of her passions.
A Very Regal Sense of Style
Bold colours, heirloom jewellery and Launer handbags have defined Queen Elizabeth II’s fashion preferences throughout her life. Her iconic look, honed by loyal designers Hardy Amies, Norman Hartnell, Stewart Parvin and head dresser Angela Kelly, saw matching coats and hats, chunky pearls and statement brooches take centre stage. Each piece in her wardrobe was made bespoke, and there were often subtle nods and inferences in what she wore. For example, for the London Olympics opening ceremony, she picked pink – a colour not seen on any flag which suggested her impartiality.
Her Majesty will forever be remembered for her devotion to her service, her country and her people.
Lead Image Courtesy/ @theroyalfamily on Instagram