Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon

Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon was born on 4 August 1900 as the ninth of ten children of Claude Bowes-Lyon, Lord Glamis (later the 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne), and his wife Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck. She was a descendant of Scottish royalty and British nobility, and grew up in a privileged and close-knit family. She was educated at home by governesses and tutors, and enjoyed outdoor activities such as fishing, riding, and gardening. She also developed a love for literature, music, and art. In 1923, she married Prince Albert, Duke of York, the second son of King George V and Queen Mary. The couple had two daughters, Elizabeth and Margaret. Elizabeth supported her husband in his public duties and became popular for her charm, grace, and sense of humour. She also shared his interest in social welfare and visited hospitals, schools, and factories. In 1936, Albert unexpectedly became king as George VI when his elder brother Edward VIII abdicated to marry American divorcée Wallis Simpson. Elizabeth then became queen consort and accompanied her husband on diplomatic tours to France and North America before the outbreak of the Second World War. During the war, Elizabeth remained in London with her daughters despite the bombing raids and showed courage and resilience that boosted the morale of the British people. She also visited troops, factories, and bombed areas across the country and abroad. She was involved in various charitable causes and patronages, such as the Women’s Voluntary Service and the Red Cross. After the war, she continued to support her husband who suffered from ill health and stress. He died in 1952 and was succeeded by their elder daughter as Elizabeth II. Elizabeth then became known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother to avoid confusion with her daughter. She devoted herself to her family, especially her grandchildren, and maintained an active public life until her final years. She travelled extensively around the world and visited many Commonwealth countries. She also enjoyed cultural pursuits such as reading, painting, gardening, and horse racing. She was a patron of numerous organisations and institutions related to arts, education, health, and heritage. She celebrated her 100th birthday in 2000 with great fanfare and received tributes from around the world. She died peacefully in her sleep on 30 March 2002 at the age of 101 at Royal Lodge in Windsor. She was buried beside her husband in the King George VI Memorial Chapel in St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle after a state funeral attended by dignitaries and royals from various countries. She was widely mourned as a beloved figure who embodied the spirit of the British monarchy and the nation.