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Elizabeth Bowes-LyonConsort of King George VI and Queen Consort of the United Kingdom 1936–1952
Date of Birth: 04.08.1900
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Biography of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon
- Involvement in World War I
- Marriage to Prince Albert
- Ascension to the Throne
- World War II and the Post-War Era
- Later Life and Legacy
Biography of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon
Childhood and EducationElizabeth Bowes-Lyon was born on August 4, 1900, during the final months of Queen Victoria's reign. She was the ninth and penultimate child of Lord and Lady Glamis. Growing up, Elizabeth spent much of her time with her brother David at the family estate in Hartfordshire and the secluded Glamis Castle in Scotland. She received limited formal education and was primarily taught at home by private tutors.
Involvement in World War I
Elizabeth's carefree childhood was overshadowed by the death of her older brother Fergus, who was killed in World War I. During the war, her mother established a convalescent home for wounded soldiers at Glamis Castle, and Elizabeth assisted in taking care of them. This experience led to her lifelong connection with the military. She later became a colonel of the Royal Army Black Watch regiment, in which her brother Fergus had served.
Marriage to Prince Albert
Elizabeth's charm captivated Prince Albert, the second son of King George V and future King George VI. Despite his shy nature, Albert was drawn to Elizabeth's vivacious personality. They got married in January 1923 and became the Duke and Duchess of York. Their wedding, which took place on April 26, 1923, did not receive radio coverage due to concerns that men would not remove their hats while listening in pubs.
Ascension to the Throne
In January 1936, King George V passed away, and Albert's older brother, Edward, ascended the throne as King Edward VIII. However, Edward's decision to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée, caused a constitutional crisis, leading to his abdication. Elizabeth unexpectedly became queen consort, and Albert became King George VI. Their coronation took place in May 1937.
World War II and the Post-War Era
During World War II, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth became symbols of resistance to Nazism. Despite government recommendations to evacuate to Canada, Elizabeth refused to leave England, stating that she would not leave without the king, and their daughters, the princesses. After the war, the royal family regained the respect they had lost due to the scandal surrounding Edward's abdication. However, tragedy struck when King George VI passed away from cancer in February 1952, and Elizabeth's eldest daughter, Princess Elizabeth, became Queen Elizabeth II.
Later Life and Legacy
After her husband's death, Queen Elizabeth, later known as the Queen Mother, moved to Scotland and oversaw the restoration of Mey Castle. She also developed an interest in horse racing and owned several record-breaking racehorses. Despite her advanced age, she continued to fulfill her public duties and remained highly respected even as the relevance of the monarchy came into question. Queen Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon passed away on March 30, 2002, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, warmth, and impeccable taste.
