Introduction
Queen Elizabeth II was a constant presence in British life for over 70 years. As the longest-reigning monarch in British history, she witnessed and adapted to enormous changes in society, technology, and global politics. Sally Bedell Smith's biography "Elizabeth the Queen" offers an intimate look at the life and reign of this remarkable woman who dedicated herself to duty and service.
This book takes us behind the scenes of some of the most significant moments in Elizabeth's life and reign. From her coronation as a young woman to her later years as the beloved "grandmother" of the nation, we see how the Queen navigated her unique role with grace, dignity, and an unwavering sense of duty. Through triumphs and challenges, Elizabeth remained a steady presence, embodying the continuity and traditions of the monarchy while also adapting to a rapidly changing world.
Chapter 1: Becoming Queen
A Historic Day
On a cold, rainy day in 1953, hundreds of thousands of people crowded the streets of London. They braved the elements for hours, packed tightly along some of the city's most famous landmarks. What could inspire such dedication? They were there to witness a once-in-a-lifetime event: the coronation procession of Queen Elizabeth II.
This momentous occasion marked the official beginning of Elizabeth's reign, though she had technically become Queen over a year earlier when her father, King George VI, passed away in his sleep. At just 25 years old, Elizabeth was thrust into a role she had been preparing for all her life, but perhaps sooner than she expected.
A New Era Begins
The coronation came at a pivotal time for Britain. The country was still recovering from the devastation of World War II, dealing with shortages and rebuilding. There were also growing fears about the spread of communism as the Cold War intensified. In this atmosphere of uncertainty, many looked to the young Queen as a symbol of hope and renewal.
Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who had known Elizabeth since she was a child, was one of her strongest supporters. He had famously declared that her reign would usher in a "new Elizabethan age," invoking the glory and achievements of Elizabeth I's time. Churchill saw in Elizabeth a steady presence that could help guide and inspire the nation through challenging times.
The Coronation Ceremony
The coronation itself was an elaborate affair steeped in centuries of tradition. Elizabeth was transported to Westminster Abbey in the magnificent Gold State Coach, wearing her great-great-grandmother's diamond tiara and a specially designed white satin gown. As she entered the Abbey, her maids of honor carefully arranged the 18-foot train of her crimson Robe of State.
Inside Westminster Abbey, 7,500 distinguished guests watched as Elizabeth took part in the ancient rituals of coronation. She swore the coronation oath, pledging to serve her people and uphold the laws of her realms. Then came the most sacred part of the ceremony - the anointing. Elizabeth's robes and jewelry were removed, leaving her in a simple white shift that emphasized her youth and vulnerability.
The Archbishop of Canterbury anointed Elizabeth with holy oil, symbolizing her divine appointment as monarch. She was then dressed in the heavy coronation robes, signifying the weight of responsibility she would bear. Finally, the solid gold St. Edward's Crown was placed on her head as shouts of "God Save the Queen!" rang out.
A Family Affair
While Elizabeth was the center of attention, her family played important supporting roles. Four-year-old Prince Charles watched wide-eyed from the audience, exclaiming "Look, it's Mummy!" to his grandmother. The Queen Mother looked on with a mix of pride and sadness, likely thinking of her late husband. Princess Margaret, Elizabeth's younger sister, struggled to hold back tears as she realized how this duty would change her relationship with her beloved sibling.
The coronation marked a profound shift, not just for the nation but for Elizabeth personally. In that moment, she truly became Queen Elizabeth II - no longer just a young wife and mother, but the living embodiment of the British monarchy and all it represented.
Chapter 2: The Queen's Prime Ministers
A Unique Relationship
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Queen's role is her relationship with the various Prime Ministers who have served during her reign. As the head of state, Elizabeth meets weekly with the Prime Minister to discuss affairs of government. These meetings are strictly confidential, allowing for frank discussions between monarch and elected leader.
Over her long reign, Elizabeth worked with 15 different Prime Ministers, from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss. Each relationship was unique, shaped by personality, politics, and the issues of the day. But in every case, the Queen's role remained the same - to advise, encourage, and warn, drawing on her decades of experience and unique perspective.
Churchill: A Special Bond
Elizabeth's first and perhaps most significant Prime Ministerial relationship was with Winston Churchill. Already a larger-than-life figure when Elizabeth took the throne, Churchill became something of a father figure to the young Queen. They bonded over shared experiences during World War II and a mutual love of horses and racing.
Their weekly meetings often ran long as they discussed affairs of state as well as lighter topics. Churchill's wit and wisdom left a lasting impression on Elizabeth. When he retired in 1955 at the age of 80, the Queen wrote him a touching letter saying that no other Prime Minister would ever hold the same place in her heart as her first.
A Parade of Conservatives
After Churchill, Elizabeth worked with a string of Conservative Prime Ministers: Anthony Eden, Harold Macmillan, and Alec Douglas-Home. While she maintained her political neutrality, the Queen was likely more comfortable with these leaders who shared her traditional outlook.
Harold Wilson: An Unlikely Friendship
It wasn't until 1964 that Labour returned to power under Harold Wilson. Despite their different backgrounds, Wilson and the Queen developed a warm rapport. He found her genuinely interested in his views and felt he could relax around her. For her part, Elizabeth appreciated Wilson's down-to-earth manner and sense of humor.
Thatcher: Two Powerful Women
Perhaps the most intriguing Prime Ministerial relationship was between Elizabeth and Margaret Thatcher, Britain's first female Prime Minister. Born just six months apart, these two women had much in common. Both were hardworking professionals who had succeeded in male-dominated spheres. Yet their personalities were quite different - Thatcher lacked the Queen's sense of humor and tended to lecture rather than converse.
While Thatcher was deeply deferential to the monarch, there were occasional tensions. One notable instance came early in Thatcher's tenure over the issue of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). The Queen insisted on attending a Commonwealth conference against Thatcher's wishes, concerned about preserving unity among African nations. Elizabeth's diplomatic touch helped smooth over tensions and paved the way for a peaceful resolution.
The Winter of Discontent
Before Thatcher came to power, Britain experienced what became known as the "Winter of Discontent" under Labour Prime Minister James Callaghan. The country was gripped by economic stagnation, bitter cold, and widespread strikes. Even gravediggers went on strike, leaving bodies unburied. It was a challenging time for the nation and the monarchy.
A Constant Presence
Through all these changes in government and the ups and downs of British political life, Queen Elizabeth remained a steady presence. She adapted to each new Prime Minister's style and personality while maintaining her own dignity and neutrality. Her experience and institutional memory became invaluable assets, offering continuity and perspective to a parade of political leaders.
Chapter 3: Calm Amidst the Storm
The Trooping the Colour Incident
In June 1981, Queen Elizabeth was participating in her annual birthday parade, known as Trooping the Colour. Riding sidesaddle on her beloved horse Burmese, she cut an impressive figure in her scarlet tunic and navy blue riding skirt. The atmosphere was festive, with the upcoming wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer adding to the excitement.
Suddenly, six shots rang out from the crowd. In a moment that demonstrated her remarkable poise, the Queen calmly steadied her startled horse. She remained perfectly composed as guards tackled the gunman, who had fortunately fired only blanks. This incident showcased Elizabeth's ability to remain cool under pressure, a trait that would serve her well throughout her reign.
A Royal Ride with Reagan
Almost exactly a year later, the Queen's equestrian skills were again on display during a visit from U.S. President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan. The highlight of their stay at Windsor Castle was a horseback ride with the Queen, carefully staged as a photo opportunity for the American leader.
As they rode together, Reagan became so caught up in waving to onlookers that he began steering his horse toward a body of water. Without missing a beat, the Queen grabbed his reins and led the horse back on course. Reagan later marveled at how she took charge of the situation. This moment of quick thinking and horsemanship helped cement a warm friendship between the royal family and the Reagans.
An Intruder in the Palace
Perhaps the most dramatic test of the Queen's composure came in July 1982, when she awoke to find an intruder in her bedroom at Buckingham Palace. Michael Fagan, a troubled man who had managed to breach palace security, sat at the foot of her bed with a piece of broken glass in his hand.
Rather than panicking, Elizabeth engaged Fagan in conversation, listening sympathetically to his problems while discretely trying to summon help. She even led him to a nearby pantry on the pretext of getting him a cigarette, where she was able to alert staff. Throughout the ordeal, which lasted about 10 minutes, the Queen remained remarkably calm. She later described the experience as surreal rather than frightening.
A Steady Presence in Turbulent Times
These incidents highlight one of Elizabeth's greatest strengths as a monarch - her ability to remain composed and dignified even in the face of danger or chaos. Whether dealing with potential assassins, overeager presidents, or bedroom intruders, she consistently demonstrated grace under pressure.
This steadiness became increasingly valuable as the royal family entered a period of turmoil in the 1990s. As her children's marriages began to crumble and scandals erupted in the tabloids, Elizabeth's calm demeanor provided a stark contrast to the drama swirling around her. Her unwavering commitment to duty and protocol helped preserve the dignity of the monarchy during some of its most challenging years.
Chapter 4: Annus Horribilis
The Calm Before the Storm
In May 1991, Queen Elizabeth embarked on a successful state visit to the United States. Despite a packed schedule of 18 engagements in Washington D.C. and visits to six cities in Florida and Texas, the trip was relatively peaceful. Little did Elizabeth know that this calm would soon give way to one of the most tumultuous periods of her reign.
Cracks in the Fairy Tale
By this time, the marriage of Prince Charles and Princess Diana was already showing serious strain. Their fairy tale wedding had captivated the world a decade earlier, but behind the scenes, things were far from perfect. Charles had rekindled his relationship with former girlfriend Camilla Parker Bowles, while Diana had begun an affair with her riding instructor, James Hewitt.
The tabloids were having a field day with rumors and speculation, but the real bombshell was yet to come. Andrew Morton, a journalist for The Sun, was working on an explosive book about the royal marriage - with Princess Diana herself as a secret collaborator.
More Royal Troubles
Meanwhile, the Queen's younger son Prince Andrew and his wife Sarah "Fergie" Ferguson were also making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Their lavish lifestyle and Fergie's indiscretions while Andrew was away on naval duty drew criticism from the press and public. Questions began to arise about royal expenses and privileges, including the Queen's tax-exempt status.
A Year of Disasters
The situation came to a head in 1992, a year that would become known as the Queen's "annus horribilis" (horrible year). It began with the separation of Andrew and Fergie in March. Then in June, just as the Queen was preparing to celebrate her 40th year on the throne, Andrew Morton's book "Diana: Her True Story" was published.
The book painted a devastating picture of life inside the royal family, portraying Charles as cold and unfaithful and the rest of the royals as remote and uncaring. Diana initially denied involvement, but it soon became clear that she had cooperated with the author. The revelations sent shockwaves through the monarchy and the nation.
More Scandals Erupt
The hits kept coming. In August, photos emerged of a topless Fergie vacationing with her "financial advisor," causing further embarrassment to the royal family. Just days later, a recorded phone conversation between Diana and a male friend was published, featuring intimate talk and Diana's bitter comments about the royals.
Windsor Castle Fire
The year's disasters culminated in November when a major fire broke out at Windsor Castle, the Queen's favorite residence. The blaze destroyed or damaged over 100 rooms and was estimated to cost up to £40 million to repair. For the deeply religious Elizabeth, it seemed like divine punishment for her family's behavior.
The Queen's Speech
A few days after the fire, still suffering from smoke inhalation and a high fever, the Queen gave a speech at a luncheon honoring her 40 years on the throne. In a rare moment of public vulnerability, she admitted that 1992 had been an "annus horribilis." The Latin phrase captured the public imagination and summed up the cascade of misfortunes that had befallen the royal family.
A Turning Point
The trials of 1992 marked a turning point for the monarchy. The fairy tale image of the royal family had been shattered, and the institution faced its greatest crisis of public confidence since the abdication of Edward VIII in 1936. Yet even in this darkest hour, Queen Elizabeth's steadfast dedication to duty and her ability to adapt would ultimately see the monarchy through the storm.
Chapter 5: Diamond Jubilee
A Milestone Anniversary
In February 2012, Queen Elizabeth II marked 60 years on the throne - her Diamond Jubilee. The celebrations began quietly on a cold day in Norfolk, where the Queen received an address from a local mayor and visited a nearby school. This low-key start belied the grand festivities to come, which would celebrate Elizabeth's long years of service and showcase the monarchy's continued relevance in modern Britain.
Faith and Diversity
One of the Queen's first major jubilee engagements was a speech at Lambeth Palace, home of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The event highlighted Elizabeth's role as head of the Church of England, but also emphasized themes of religious tolerance and cooperation. By inviting leaders from nine major faiths in Britain, the Queen signaled her commitment to fostering unity in an increasingly diverse nation.
A Family Affair
The jubilee celebrations involved the entire royal family, with Elizabeth's children and grandchildren representing her at events around the world. This approach served two purposes: it allowed for a more extensive celebration while also showcasing the next generations of the monarchy. The Queen was clearly looking to the future, preparing her heirs to take on greater responsibilities.
Tea with Three Generations
One memorable event brought together the Queen, Camilla (now the Duchess of Cornwall), and Catherine (the Duchess of Cambridge) for tea at the famous Fortnum & Mason department store. This outing was designed to present a more relatable, family-oriented image of the royals. It also highlighted the three generations of women who would shape the future of the monarchy.
Embracing Multiculturalism
The jubilee celebrations made a point of showcasing Britain's multicultural identity. In Leicester, one of the country's most diverse cities, performances included Bollywood dancers, Sikh drummers, a Zimbabwean women's choir, and Chinese umbrella dancers alongside traditional Anglican elements. This reflected both the changing face of Britain and the monarchy's efforts to remain relevant to all its subjects.
A Historic Address
On March 20, the Queen addressed both houses of Parliament in Westminster Hall, only the sixth time in her reign she had done so. In her speech, Elizabeth reflected on Britain's history and the virtues that had shaped the nation. She also reaffirmed her dedication to service, a commitment she had first made as a young princess over 60 years earlier.
The Queen acknowledged the support of her husband, Prince Philip, and the work of her children in representing her abroad. When she finished speaking, the audience gave her a standing ovation that lasted a minute and a half - a powerful demonstration of respect and affection for a monarch who had guided the nation through decades of change.
A Renewed Monarchy
The Diamond Jubilee marked a high point for the monarchy, with public approval at near-record levels. It was a far cry from the dark days of the early 1990s, when scandals and family dramas had threatened to undermine public support for the institution. Through it all, Queen Elizabeth had remained a steady presence, adapting to changing times while maintaining the dignity of her office.
The jubilee celebrations showcased a monarchy that had evolved - more open, more diverse, and more in touch with modern Britain. Yet it also emphasized the continuity and tradition embodied by the Queen herself. As she entered her seventh decade on the throne, Elizabeth remained as dedicated as ever to her role as sovereign and symbol of national unity.
Final Thoughts: The End of an Era
Queen Elizabeth II's reign spanned an extraordinary period of change. When she ascended the throne in 1952, Britain was still recovering from World War II and ruled over a vast empire. By the time of her Diamond Jubilee, the empire was long gone, and Britain had transformed into a multicultural society at the forefront of globalization and technological change.
Throughout these monumental shifts, Elizabeth remained a constant presence. She adapted to new technologies and changing social norms while maintaining the traditions and dignity of her office. Her unwavering sense of duty and commitment to service earned her the respect and affection of millions around the world.
In her later years, even as she delegated more responsibilities to younger royals, Elizabeth continued to carry out her duties with remarkable energy and dedication. Her Platinum Jubilee in 2022, marking 70 years on the throne, was a testament to her enduring influence and popularity.
When Queen Elizabeth II passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96, it truly marked the end of an era. Her son, now King Charles III, inherited a monarchy that had been profoundly shaped by his mother's long reign. The challenges facing the institution in the 21st century are different from those Elizabeth faced when she became Queen, but the example she set - of duty, adaptability, and quiet strength - will undoubtedly influence the monarchy for generations to come.
Elizabeth's life and reign offer valuable lessons in leadership, duty, and the ability to change with the times while holding fast to core principles. She navigated countless political, social, and family crises with remarkable poise and dignity. Even in her most difficult moments, she never lost sight of her role as a symbol of national unity and continuity.
Perhaps the greatest tribute to Queen Elizabeth II is that she managed to make an ancient institution relevant in the modern world. Through her personal example and careful stewardship of the monarchy, she ensured that the Crown remained a unifying force for her nation and the Commonwealth. Her legacy is not just one of longevity, but of quiet strength, unwavering commitment, and the ability to provide stability in an ever-changing world.
As Britain and the world move forward without Queen Elizabeth II, her influence will continue to be felt. The values she embodied - duty, service, dignity, and resilience - remain as relevant as ever in our fast-paced, often chaotic world. While the monarchy will inevitably evolve under new leadership, the foundation laid by Elizabeth's long and successful reign will continue to shape this ancient institution far into the future.
In the end, Queen Elizabeth II's story is not just about one remarkable woman, but about the power of dedication, adaptability, and steadfast commitment to one's role and responsibilities. Her reign serves as an inspiring example of how to navigate change while staying true to one's core principles - a lesson that extends far beyond the realm of royalty to touch all of our lives.