Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history, passed away at 3:20pm on Thursday, 8 September 2022, at the age of 96. Her death marked the end of a 70-year reign that began in 1952. Known for her unwavering commitment to duty and service, Queen Elizabeth was a symbol of stability throughout her long rule. She died peacefully at Balmoral Castle in Scotland, with her son Charles, now King Charles III, and her daughter Princess Anne by her side.
A beloved figure across the Commonwealth, Queen Elizabeth had a special connection to Malta, where she lived as a young princess during her husband Prince Philip’s naval service in the late 1940s. The island remained dear to her, and she returned several times as monarch, including a visit in 2015 for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.
Following her passing, King Charles III ascended the throne. His coronation in May 2023 blended traditional ceremony with touches of modernity, reflecting his vision of evolving the monarchy while honouring its heritage. Despite challenges, such as the ongoing rift with Prince Harry and Charles’s own health issues, including treatment for cancer, the monarchy remains a steady institution. As King Charles continues his public duties and plans for a royal tour of Australia, discussions of a potentially scaled-back role for the monarchy have emerged. Yet, the institution endures, guided by the legacy of Queen Elizabeth’s remarkable reign.
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