This summer, whether you care or not, the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations have filled every corner of the world. It's Britain's own carnival, but the whole world is involved. Because, the British royal family is the living signboard of their country, and Queen Elizabeth II, who has a long standby, is the most shining "golden letter" in the signboard.
The British royal family has a long history, the Windsor dynasty has a history of more than 100 years since its establishment in 1917, and the queen's reign has reached 70 years, accounting for two-thirds of the history of the Windsor dynasty. The official date of the Queen's succession to the throne was 6 February 1952, the day of the death of her father, George VI. The crowning ceremony, which was most important to the royal family, took place on June 2, 1953, so June 2 to 5 became the time of celebration every year.
The Queen's extra-long standby is not only a miracle in British history, but also makes her one of the world's longest-reigning modern monarchs. On June 12, 2022, she surpassed Thailand's King Bhumibol's 70-year reign record behind France's Louis XIV.
Queen Elizabeth II succeeded to the throne on February 6, 1952, when she was just 21 years old. This vow that "she will dedicate her life to the royal family and the country" was already said on her 21st birthday, and it also means that she will give up everything, including her love, to take on the responsibility of the country.
Her parents, George VI and Queen Elizabeth, set a great example for her for her country and their people during World War II. In addition, the vow may also contain a response to some twists and turns in the royal history, such as Edward VIII's abdication of the throne because of love. From these aspects, the Queen's oath is not only a loyalty to the country and the royal family, but also a response to her own strong character.
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the British Empire had gradually fallen apart from the sunset. Many colonies began to break away from British rule, and the British Commonwealth became loose. At the same time, the giants of the century in the world, such as Churchill, Charles de Gaulle, Stalin and Truman, were vying for supremacy on the world stage.
However, Queen Elizabeth II wisely chose to cede the "frontal battlefield" to these giants, while herself made a name for herself in foreign affairs. By visiting various countries, especially those within the Commonwealth, she co-opted a range of countries, making her one of the most extensive travellers in British history.
The Queen's foreign visit has left 52 countries or territories willing to maintain relations with the UK. The Queen's long standby has lasted for 70 years, and she has cemented Britain's position in the world with her face and diplomatic skills.
In 70 years, the queen has spent 14 prime ministers. With the exception of Margaret Thatcher, who did not have a good relationship, the other male prime ministers praised the Queen. The Queen's humour and wisdom impressed her in the hearts of the Prime Ministers.
Even in her treatment of the United States**, the Queen showed composure and affability. She began a diplomatic relationship with Truman, and later witnessed the inauguration and departure of 14 Americans. The Queen's contact with the United States has undoubtedly played a positive role in the diplomatic relations between Britain and the United States.
The Queen's long tenure has made her one of the longest-reigning kings in history, but it has also meant that she has endured many challenges. One of the biggest crises was the Queen's initial reaction after Princess Diana's death in 1997.
At the time, the queen was on holiday and she signed a declaration, but did not immediately return to the UK. This calm and cautious response was seen by some of the population as cold and ruthless, and some even called for the abolition of the monarchy. However, the queen soon changed tactics and salvaged the situation and won hearts and minds with a sympathetic televised address, a conversation with a commoner woman, and a bow to Diana's coffin.
The queen not only showed excellent diplomatic skills in international affairs, but also carried out a series of domestic political and social reforms. Her steadfastness and wisdom have earned her the respect of the Prime Minister and the public.
The Queen's long standby, while challenging her in some ways, also made her one of the preeminent monarchs in British history. Her perseverance and dedication are the pride of Britain and admired by the whole world. Although she has been on the throne for 70 years, her legend continues, and it remains to be seen if she can claim the first place in the reign of a modern monarch. In any case, Queen Elizabeth II will always be remembered in history as a ruler who was ahead of her time.