We regret to inform you that Queen Elizabeth II has passed away at the age of 96. She ruled the United Kingdom for 70 years and seven months, the longest reign in British history. Her reign began at the age of 25 after her father, George VI, passed away. She married Philip Mountbatten, a former prince of Greece and Denmark, and together they would produce four children during their 73 years of marriage: Charles, Prince of Wales; Anne, Princess Royal; Prince Andrew, Duke of York; and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex.
Is Queen Elizabeth II Still Alive?
The unfortunate news from Buckingham Palace on Thursday, September 8, 2022, is that Queen Elizabeth II has passed away. Reigning as a constitutional monarch since 1952, she oversaw leadership in the United Kingdom over a wide range of geopolitical issues and changes.
Elizabeth II, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of her other realms and territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith, passed away in her home at Balmoral Castle in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.
Throughout her time, she witnessed several changes to the monarchy, the Troubles in Northern Ireland, decolonizing Africa, the U.K. leaving the European Union, and various wars and conflicts.
Queen Elizabeth II helped guide the country through 12 prime ministers during her time and was able to celebrate her Silver, Golden, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilees.
Despite scrutiny in the media, testing personal family issues, and dealing with the death of her former daughter-in-law Diana, Princess of Wales, in 1997, she was able to keep support for the monarchy, as her popularity would not waver.
Image: British Vogue
Does This Mean Camilla Will Be Queen?
As it stands, Charles, Prince of Wales, is set to become the next King of England. This, of course, would mean that his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is set to be the Queen consort. As Charles is the child of Elizabeth II, the succession will go to him, and Camilla’s title will be through marriage.
Operation London Bridge
Operation London Bridge is what will take place from the moment the British Prime Minister has been notified of Queen Elizabeth II’s death until King Charles, or whatever title he chooses, has been established on the throne.
After notifying the government and the media, a lot will need to be done. Expect several days of trading to stop in the U.K., including on the date of the Queen’s death as well as the day of her funeral. Her funeral will also be a bank holiday.
Shops and other places of business will also likely close out of respect, and in the same sense, it’s expected that BBC will not be showing any comedies until Queen Elizabeth II is laid to rest. Instead, already-created documentaries will be shown about the life of England’s longest-running monarch.
A 41-gun salute to King Charles will be in order as the military swears allegiance to their new leader. From here, the new King will embark on a tour around the country.
Queen Elizabeth II’s coffin will be brought to Westminster Abbey for her funeral. From there, she will be brought to Windsor Castle and, ultimately, St. George’s Chapel.
It is here that she will be laid to rest beside her father, King George VI.
Sweeping changes will come to the culture of the United Kingdom, including changes to their currency, passports, uniforms, and stamps. Each will be phased out from depicting Queen Elizabeth II and will be renewed with King Charles. The national anthem will be amended to “God Save the King.”
Image: Town & Country Magazine
Queen Elizabeth II Grandchildren
With Charles becoming King of England, his children are now in line for the throne. This means William, Duke of Cambridge, would succeed King Charles. From here, William’s children would become eligible in the order of their birth: Prince George, 9; Princess Charlotte, 7; and Prince Louis, 4.
Is Meghan Markle a Princess?
Yes, while Meghan Markle is a duchess, she is also a princess. Even despite the drama of the Royal Family, she retains the position of being a princess. However, as things stand, there is no realistic scenario in which Meghan Markle will become the Queen of England.
A Blow to the British Monarchy
One of the major ramifications after the death of Queen Elizabeth II is the ripple effect that it may have throughout the various governments and commonwealth nations under U.K. control.
There have been calls to leave the crown in some places, but the political relationship with Queen Elizabeth II kept them together in a way no other dignitary could.
With King Charles taking the throne, it remains to be seen how these relationships will move forward, but change is almost inevitable, given the situation.
These speculations do not mean that things will necessarily head south but that the formation of governments worldwide with ties to the United Kingdom may be altered forever.
A particular point of emphasis would be on Australia. During the Platinum Jubilee, Australia took a major step to remove Queen Elizabeth II, and her passing could expedite the process.
Considering the geopolitical issues surrounding the general region of Oceania and the aggressive moves conducted by China, this could be a place of contention for years to come.
It also brings into question the relationship and responsibilities of such nations with the United States. A lot is transpiring, and things could be a bit tricky as the U.K. solidifies its leadership over the upcoming weeks.
Queen Elizabeth II and World War II
Image: British Vogue
A Princess at War, Queen Elizabeth II during World War II showcased early on in her long life what would ultimately become her legacy: service.
The U.K. during WWII was less than ideal. To assist her country with the war effort, at the age of 19, Queen Elizabeth II (not yet the Queen, of course) joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) training to be a driver and mechanic.
During her service, she would ultimately reach Junior Commander, which was equal to the level of Captain. As Queen, Elizabeth II would hold the position of Colonel-in-Chief, which made her the Head of State and Head of the Armed Services.
Although her time on Earth has come to an end, it’s still obvious that her life and legacy have impacted her country and the world. We haven’t seen the last of her actions while here with us, but as our closest ally mourns, there is no doubt that the future will still shine bright as Queen Elizabeth II’s impression continues to be larger than life.
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