How Old Was Queen Elizabeth When She Became Queen

So, if you’re wondering how the queen received her throne or when exactly it happened, you’re not alone. Here is everything you need to know about how old Queen Elizabeth was when she became queen.

How Did Queen Elizabeth II become the British Sovereign?

Queen Elizabeth II’s father was King George VI, who began his reign in December of 1936. However, the king was a heavy smoker for much of his life, which led to significant health problems— including the removal of a lung—by the end of his life. These health problems ultimately caused the king’s untimely death at the age of 56. King George VI and his wife Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon had two children during their marriage. His two daughters were Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. Being the eldest of the two women; this made Queen Elizabeth II the rightful heir to the British throne when her father passed away.

When was the Queen crowned?

King George VI died in his sleep unexpectedly on Feb. 6, 1952. At that time, because the king’s death was not expected, then-Princess Elizabeth was away helping to conduct business for the royal family on behalf of her father. She was in the foothills of Mount Kenya on royal business when she received the news of her father’s passing. Elizabeth then had to make her way back to England as fast as possible. During that time, the Ascension Council held a meeting as soon as they could to declare and confirm the ascension of the then-princess to the throne. Because of this, Queen Elizabeth II began her reign as the British Monarch on the same day as her father’s death, Feb. 6, 1952. However, her coronation did not take place until June 2, 1953.

How old was Queen Elizabeth II when she became queen?

King George VI was relatively young when he passed away, leaving the British throne to his daughter and rightful heir, Queen Elizabeth II. Because of this, Queen Elizabeth II herself was quite young when she assumed the position. Elizabeth II was only 25 years old, just a few weeks shy of her 26th birthday, when she became the Queen of England.

How long has Queen Elizabeth II held the throne?

The queen began her reign on February 6, 1952. So, she has been the Queen of England for 70 years as of 2022. Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebration commemorates this momentous milestone. Next, see Queen Elizabeth’s family tree.