Queen Elizabeth: UK’s constant in a changing world

LONDON—Queen Elizabeth II is now Britain’s longest-serving monarch, reigning through the decline of the British empire and some of the worst scandals in royal history.

With over 63 years on the throne, the queen is one of the most famous and respected women in the world and “embodies the history of the 20th Century,” according to historian Kate Williams.

The 89-year-old, rarely seen without her signature hat and handbag, has met most of the major figures of recent decades, from India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru to Japanese emperor Hirohito.

South Africa’s anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela called her “my friend,” while her reign also spanned the construction and destruction of the Berlin Wall.

The sprawling British empire of the Victorian era, on which it was said that the sun never set, has shrunk during her reign. Most recently, Hong Kong was handed over to China in 1997.

Yet even in far-flung parts of the world, “when people refer to the queen they almost always mean our queen,” said John Major, one of 12 prime ministers to have held office while she has been on the throne.

Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor was born on April 21, 1926. When her father gained the crown as George VI, she became heir to the throne.

When her father died at the age of 56 in 1952 she became queen at 25.

Her role is highly ceremonial and she remains above the fray of politics.

“Ma’am,” as her subjects address her, presides over the Commonwealth composed of 53 members, including 15 former colonies where she is still the sovereign, such as Australia and Canada.

She has visited 132 countries, posed for 139 portraits and given thousands of speeches, though never an interview. Her private life is largely a mystery.