Queen Elizabeth is the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth realms since 1952. The brand also encompasses the royal family, their residences, and the various organizations associated with them.
Elizabeth was born in 1926 in London, the first child of Prince Albert, Duke of York, and his wife, the former Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon.
She ascended to the throne in 1952 upon the death of her father, King George VI.
During her reign, she has seen significant world events such as the end of the British Empire and the creation of the Commonwealth, the rise of the Cold War, and several significant changes in the United Kingdom's political and social landscape.
She has become known for her longevity, with over 70 years on the throne, making her the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
Throughout her reign, she has traveled widely and served as the head of state for many Commonwealth countries.
Her family has also garnered significant media attention, with notable events like the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana and the recent weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.
The royal family has also been involved in various charitable and philanthropic ventures, with Queen Elizabeth serving as a patron for many organizations.
The British monarchy is the institution of the monarchy in the United Kingdom, comprising the monarch, the royal family, and various organizations associated with them.
The Swedish monarchy is the institution of the monarchy in Sweden, comprising the monarch, the royal family, and various organizations associated with them.
The Norwegian monarchy is the institution of the monarchy in Norway, comprising the monarch, the royal family, and various organizations associated with them.
Queen Elizabeth owns several royal residences, including Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Balmoral Castle.
The royal family conducts several events throughout the year, including Trooping the Colour, Royal Ascot, and the State Opening of Parliament.
The royal family is involved in various charitable and philanthropic ventures, with Queen Elizabeth serving as a patron of many organizations.
Queen Elizabeth's net worth is estimated to be around $500 million, primarily from her personal investments and estates.
As the reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth serves as the head of state, representing the United Kingdom and its interests both domestically and internationally. She carries out various ceremonial duties and investitures, attends state banquets, and meets with foreign dignitaries.
While the Queen technically has several powers, including appointing the Prime Minister and dissolving Parliament, these are largely ceremonial and are exercised on the advice of elected officials. The Queen's role is primarily symbolic and representative, with the day-to-day governance of the country left to elected officials and their appointed advisors.
When the Queen dies, her son Prince Charles will ascend to the throne as King. This is known as an accession. The process of mourning, funeral arrangements, and the ascension of the new monarch is known as a succession.
The royal family is largely apolitical and neutral, with members of the family refraining from taking political positions or endorsing political candidates. The monarch's role is to represent the country and its interests, not to engage in political debate.