On September 8th, 2022 her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth ll passed away peacefully at 3:10pm in Balmoral Castle, Scotland, due to several health problems. Her Majesty, reigned for 70 years and 214 days, she was the longest of any British monarch and “the longest verified reign of any female monarch in history.”

Her presence changed the course of history for the better, she was known for taking a serious interest in government and political affairs, apart from her ceremonial duties, and was credited with modernizing many aspects of the monarchy.  The 1960s in the UK, were years of dramatic change. Specifically, in 1965, Britain abolished the death penalty in cases of murder, when Her Majesty signed the Murder Act, prohibiting the death penalty. Other changes during the decade included the legalisation of abortion and homosexuality, both in 1967.

However, Queen Elizabeth went beyond changing the laws of the country, she was a role model to young and old because of what she symbolized. Once she died she was one of the few rulers of a country that was female, she changed the course of history for female leaders. One single Queen, led to inspiration of other women to become leaders; she stood for a change in the modern world. 

After her death, her eldest son Prince Charles immediately became King, which has caused a lot of controversy within the country.  Many don’t think he is the right fit for the throne and believe the crown should be passed on to one of the late Queen’s other children, Princess Anne or Prince Edward.

The question lies on whether he will be able to keep the monarchy stable and preserve the establishment his mother spent so much of her life working for and protecting. His image has been built throughout the period of time where he was the Prince of Wales, having quite unfavourable moments in his private life. This includes his affair with Camilla Parker Bowles and his very complicated relationship with Princess Diana up until her untimely death. The Queen had done her best to leave the politics to the politicians, unlike her son, who has involved himself in such matters, in a violation to the monarchy’s neutrality in British politics. 

The new King’s lack of appeal and charm and the heartbreak that so many felt when learning about the Queen’s death won’t help him be well supported in his reign. The Queen was part of what made England so great and was one of the most iconic people of the country’s history. While every monarch has their own impression on their people, hers will always remain unmatched.