10 Facts about Queen Elizabeth II

The recent passing of Queen Elizabeth II has created a huge shift in, not only the United Kingdom, but the entire commonwealth. At the time of Her Majesty’s death, most people had only known the Queen as their Monarch – as she is the longest serving Monarch in British history. As a way of remembrance, we’ve compiled a list of things that you may not typically know about Queen Elizabeth II.

1. At just 19 years old, Elizabeth was the first female British Royal to serve as an active-duty military member. When serving, Elizabeth drove and worked on military vehicles, such as ambulances, during World War II.

 

2. The Queen’s coronation, in June 1953, was the first major royal event to be broadcast on TV.

 

3. During Elizabeth’s rule, she saw 15 British prime ministers, Liz Truss becoming the most recent, and 14 American presidents! The Queen also met all of these prime ministers and presidents in person except for Lyndon Johnson.

 

4. Queen Elizabeth was the only person allowed to drive without a license as well as being able to fly without a passport. All passports are issued in the Queen’s name so there was no need for her to own one.

 

5. Her Majesty’s wedding took place after the war and because of this, Princess Elizabeth bought the material for her wedding dress with World War II ration coupons. She received some help by the British government as they also contributed 200 extra clothing ration coupons to the soon to the royal bride.

 

6. Queen Elizabeth II didn’t have to pay taxes, but she chose too anyway. Elizabeth voluntarily paid income and capital gains tax in 1992. As a monarch, she was not legally obligated to pay these taxes.

 

7. During her reign, the Queen travelled over one million miles! That means she holds the title of being the most well-travelled monarch.

 

8. Her Majesty was able to speak fluent French. Queen Elizabeth II learned to speak fluent French at a young age from French governesses and once shocked people as she delivered a full speech in French.

 

9. Queen Elizabeth II was not only the Queen of the United Kingdom, but the Queen of 14 other countries too (known as the Commonwealth). These countries include Australia and Canada.

 

10. In June 2022, Queen Elizabeth II celebrated 70 years on the throne with her ‘Platinum Jubilee’ which was a four-day holiday, this was the first time a British monarch has celebrated this milestone and therefore made Her Majesty the longest reigning British monarch.

We would like to thank Queen Elizabeth II for 70 years of service, our heartfelt condolences are with the Royal Family after the passing of Her Majesty, may she rest in peace.