The Intriguing Journey from Princess to Queen: The Path to Queen Elizabeth II's Crown

The usual way it would seem amusing if she had become a king, as we do not need two of them at the same time. In 1701, the English Parliament passed the Act of Settlement, settling the line of succession for the royal family. This law declared that when the current royal family had all died, the nearest living Protestant relative would ascend the throne. This legal framework laid the foundation for the eventual crowning of Queen Elizabeth II.

The Act of Settlement (1701) and Its Impact on the Royal Lineage

In 1701, the English Parliament passed a law called the Act of Settlement. This law determined that after the current royal family had all died, the throne would be settled on Sophia of Hanover and her descendants. Sophia was the nearest living Protestant relative to the current royals. This law had far-reaching consequences, including the eventual succession of King George I and Queen Elizabeth II.

The Early Years of the Royal Family (1702-1830)

In 1702, William III passed away, and Anne became Queen. In June 1714, Sophia of Hanover died, and her son, George, became the first in line to the throne. In August 1714, Anne died, and George became King George I. This succession continued through George II, George III, George IV, and William IV. Each transition marked a significant chapter in British royal history, culminating in the succession of Queen Victoria in 1837, followed by her uncle, Edward VII, and his daughter, Alexandra. Finally, in 1837, King William IV died, and his niece, Victoria, ascended to the throne, beginning a dynasty that would continue through her granddaughter, Queen Elizabeth II.

The Early Years of Queen Elizabeth II

The journey leading to Queen Elizabeth II's reign began much earlier with her beloved grandfather, King George V. He married Queen Mary of Teck and had six children. The three eldest were:

Edward (later King Edward VIII), known as David in the family. Albert (later King George VI), known as Bertie in the family. Mary (Princess Royal).

When King George V died at the age of 70, his eldest son, Edward, succeeded him and became King Edward VIII. However, Edward fell in love with Wallis Simpson, an American divorcee. Their relationship was controversial, and he wanted to marry her and maintain her position as Queen, which the British Parliament would not allow. Consequently, he abdicated the throne to marry Wallis Simpson. This event thrust Bertie, the Duke of York, into the position of King. Bertie was a shy man and already had a sense of duty, so he stepped up when called upon to do so. He took the regnal name of King George VI.

Queen Elizabeth II: From Princess to Sovereign

King George VI married Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, and they had two daughters: Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) and Princess Margaret. Princess Elizabeth was not made Princess Royal as her aunt, Princess Mary, was still alive. Elizabeth became HRH Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood. When King George VI died at the tragically young age of 56, his daughter, now the Duchess of Edinburgh, was informed of her father's death by her beloved husband, Philip. She flew from Kenya to Britain to return as Queen Elizabeth II. A noteworthy detail about Queen Elizabeth II is that she was initially without mourning clothes for her return. A black dress was rushed to her, and she changed on the plane, highlighting her preparedness and composure.

Queen Elizabeth II's story is a testament to the intricate and often dramatic nature of royal succession. From the Act of Settlement to the abdication of King Edward VIII and the unexpected rise of Bertie as King George VI, her journey to becoming Queen Elizabeth II reflects the complex history and traditions of the British monarchy.