Queen Elizabeth II

Watch a brief overview of Queen Elizabeth II’s long life and reign including her royal childhood, her coming of age during World War II, her sudden accession to the throne, her personal and family challenges and the fulfillment of her vow to dedicate her entire life to the Commonwealth.

Elizabeth comes of age during WWII, as Britain endures the deadly German aerial bombardment known as “The Blitz.” The King and Queen escape injury when Buckingham Palace is bombed, and their steadfast resolve and dedication to duty make an impression on Elizabeth, who serves her country as a truck mechanic.

Upon the death of her father, King George VI, in January 1952, 25-year old Elizabeth II becomes Queen. Elizabeth and her husband, Prince Philip, are in Africa when they learn of the King’s passing and return to London for the state funeral. The coronation takes place after a period of mourning, on June 2, 1953.

In the first years of her reign, the Queen cultivates the Commonwealth of Nations, former imperial colonies that still desire strong ties with Britain. Former British Prime Minister John Major notes that, “when the queen became monarch in 1952 the commonwealth were four, perhaps five nations, no more. The queen and the commonwealth have grown up together.”

Follow Queen Elizabeth II’s remarkable life, from her youth to her uncle’s abdication, her father’s coronation as King George VI, her experience during World War II, her sudden ascension to the throne and her eventful reign of more than 60 years.