Queen Elizabeth II

For 70 years and 214 days, Queen Elizabeth II sat on the throne and dedicated her life to the British people. She was the personified symbol of the monarchy, head of state of more than 50 nations in the Commonwealth of Nations, as well as Queen of the Commonwealth Realm, consisting of 14 states. Although she was the apolitical head of state, her words carried weight. She was loved for her calm demeanor and discipline – duty was her highest principle – yet her life and reign were marked by turbulence. There were highs and lows, both privately within her family and politically.