Queen Elizabeth II: An Oral History

Early Life and Childhood

Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926, at 17 Bruton Street in Mayfair, London. She was the eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. Her younger sister, Princess Margaret, was born four years later.

Elizabeth's childhood was spent in a relatively quiet and private setting. She was educated at home by a series of governesses and tutors. She was also a keen horsewoman and enjoyed spending time outdoors.

Queen Elizabeth II: An Oral History

by Christie Golden

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36091 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	543 pages
Item Weight	:	15.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.9 x 5.98 x 0.94 inches

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"She was a very intelligent and curious child," said Marion Crawford, her governess. "She always wanted to know what was going on and she had a great sense of humor."

Accession to the Throne

Elizabeth's life changed dramatically in 1936 when her uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated the throne. Her father, the Duke of York, became King George VI and Elizabeth became heiress presumptive.

Elizabeth was just 10 years old when her father became King. She was suddenly thrust into the public eye and had to learn how to fulfill her royal duties.

"It was a huge responsibility," said Elizabeth in a later interview. "But I was determined to do my best and to serve my country and my people."

Reign as Queen

Elizabeth became Queen on February 6, 1952, following the death of her father. She was crowned at Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953.

Elizabeth's reign has been marked by a number of significant events, including the Suez Crisis, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the Falklands War.

She has also witnessed a number of social and cultural changes, such as the rise of the internet and the globalization of the world economy.

Throughout her reign, Elizabeth has remained a constant and reassuring presence for the British people.

Personal Life

Elizabeth married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 1947. They had four children: Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.

Elizabeth and Philip were married for 73 years until Philip's death in 2021.

Legacy

Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in British history. She has served her country and the Commonwealth with distinction for over 70 years.

She is a symbol of stability and continuity in a rapidly changing world. She is also a beloved figure who has won the respect and admiration of people around the globe.

"Her Majesty the Queen is an extraordinary woman," said former Prime Minister Tony Blair. "She has dedicated her life to public service and has been a constant source of inspiration for us all."

Queen Elizabeth II is a remarkable woman who has lived an extraordinary life. She is a symbol of British history and a beloved figure around the world.

Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Queen Elizabeth II: An Oral History

by Christie Golden

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	36091 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	543 pages
Item Weight	:	15.5 ounces
Dimensions	:	8.9 x 5.98 x 0.94 inches

FREE