On Tuesday, June 5th, the world’s longest-reigning monarch will celebrate her Platinum Jubilee. Queen Elizabeth II has reigned over Great Britain and many independent countries within the British Commonwealth of Nations for seventy years! To commemorate this historic milestone, several special events are being planned throughout the coming year. Today we’re taking a look at some interesting facts about her life and reign. Stay tuned for more fascinating posts about the Queen as the jubilee approaches!
Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in British history. However, she never expected to be Queen. Her uncle, Edward VIII, abdicated, and her Father, King George VI, passed away on February 6, 1952. While she immediately became Queen after her father’s passing, her coronation did not take place until over a year later in June of 1953.
The Queen has been an example of dignity and grace for over 70 years. The tragic death of Princess Diana demanded the Queen to remain a figure of strength both for her family and for the global community of people who were shocked and deeply saddened by Diana’s passing.
She became a symbol of national stability during World War II. During the Second World War, she joined the Women’s Auxiliary Territory Service, trained, and worked as an auto mechanic despite her family’s great concern.
Her coronation was one of the most lavish ceremonies ever held in Britain, with more than 100,000 guests in attendance. It was also the first televised coronations in British history, with an estimated 27 million viewers in Britain and many millions more worldwide.
The Queen has carried out her duties with no regard to personal inconvenience or discomfort. During her first world tours, she smiled and waved so often she was afflicted with painful facial spasms and wrist pain. She adopted her characteristic reserved smile and dignified wave as a result.
As we celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and honour her example of strength, courage and resiliency, let us not forget to take a few moments for ourselves. With COVID in our lives, it is easy to feel like something has been taken from you or that there is no end in sight. Let yourself be encouraged by this call for resilience as we announce the Okanagan Military Tattoo will be one of the many organizations from around the world that will honour the Queen during this year’s Tattoo performance. Subscribe now to get updates about our show!