Queen Elizabeth II is being remembered across the UK four years after her death at Balmoral Castle.
The late monarch died on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96. Her death ended a historic reign that lasted more than seven decades.
Queen Elizabeth became the longest-reigning British monarch in history. She also became the longest-serving female monarch in recorded history.
Her reign began in February 1952 after the death of her father, King George VI. She remained on the throne through major political, social and cultural changes.
During her 70 years as monarch, Elizabeth worked with 15 UK prime ministers. Winston Churchill served as her first prime minister, while Liz Truss became the final prime minister of her reign.
Queen Elizabeth spent her final days at Balmoral in Scotland, where she traditionally enjoyed her summer break.
On September 6, 2022, she formally appointed Liz Truss as prime minister. The ceremony marked one of her final official constitutional duties.
Two days later, Buckingham Palace announced that doctors had become concerned about the Queen’s health.
Members of the Royal Family travelled to Balmoral after receiving the news.
Queen Elizabeth died peacefully later that day.
Buckingham Palace announced her death in a statement that said the Queen had died peacefully at Balmoral that afternoon.
Queen Elizabeth’s reign covered a period of enormous change.
She witnessed the transformation of the British Empire into the Commonwealth. She also saw major changes in technology, culture and British society.
The Queen travelled extensively throughout her reign. She met hundreds of world leaders and welcomed many international figures to the UK.
Her public duties also continued into her 90s. Even during her final year, she maintained a demanding schedule.
Her Platinum Jubilee in June 2022 marked 70 years on the throne. The nationwide celebrations became the final major public milestone of her reign.
Following her death, members of the Royal Family paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth.
Her eldest son became King Charles III. He delivered a televised address and described his mother as an inspiration throughout his life.
The Queen’s funeral took place at Westminster Abbey on September 19, 2022.
World leaders and members of royal families from around the world attended the state funeral. Millions of people also watched the historic ceremony.
Queen Elizabeth was later laid to rest at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, alongside her husband, Prince Philip, and her parents.
Four years after her death, Queen Elizabeth remains a central figure in modern British history.
Her image continues to appear on British stamps, coins and other official items. Her reign also remains closely connected with some of the most significant moments in the UK’s recent history.
The Queen’s relationship with the public changed over seven decades. However, her commitment to royal service remained a defining feature of her life.
As the UK marks the fourth anniversary of her death, tributes continue to remember a monarch who dedicated most of her life to public duty.
