Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor

Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor was born in Mayfair, London, during the reign of her paternal grandfather, King George V. She unexpectedly became heir presumptive in 1936 following the abdication of her uncle Edward VIII and the accession of her father, King George VI. During World War II, she trained as a driver and mechanic in the Auxiliary Territorial Service.

Acceding to the throne at age twenty-five upon her father's death in February 1952, Elizabeth was crowned at Westminster Abbey in the world's first internationally televised coronation. Over a reign spanning 70 years and 214 days, she worked with fifteen British Prime Ministers—from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss—and met thirteen United States presidents. She steered the monarchy through the decolonization of the British Empire, the Cold War, and the modern digital age, dedicating her life to duty, public service, and the Commonwealth of Nations. Her Platinum Jubilee in June 2022 united millions across the globe in celebration months before her peaceful passing at Balmoral Castle.