Quick Wiki
- Full Name Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon
- Birth Date August 04, 1900
- Birth Date Aug 04, 1900
- Age 124 Years, 7 Months
- Death Date 2002-03-30
- Age At Death 101
- Place Of Death Royal Lodge, Windsor, Berkshire, England
- Birthplace Hitchin or London, England
- Mother Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck
- Father Claude Bowes-Lyon, 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne
Queen Mother Elizabeth | Biography
Queen of the United KingdomQueen Mother Elizabeth, known for her unwavering spirit during WWII, was the beloved Queen consort of King George VI. She became a key figure in British history.
Who is Queen Mother Elizabeth?
Queen Mother Elizabeth, originally named Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon, was the beloved consort of King George VI and the mother of Queen Elizabeth II. Born on August 4, 1900, she emerged as a key figure in British society. Her early life was marked by the impact of World War I, during which she developed a strong sense of duty and resilience. Following her marriage to Prince Albert, Duke of York, in 1923, she became instrumental in supporting him as he prepared to ascend the throne after the abdication of his brother, King Edward VIII, in 1936.
As Queen, Elizabeth captivated the public with her warmth and determination, especially during the challenges of World War II. Her commitment to remaining in Britain alongside her children, despite recommendations to evacuate, endeared her to the nation. Known affectionately as the "Smiling Duchess," she was a source of hope and strength, visiting hospitals and factories to boost morale. After her husband's death in 1952, she accepted the role of Queen Mother, continuing to serve the royal family and the public while maintaining a close relationship with her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, and her grandchildren.
Early Life and Education
Queen Mother Elizabeth, born Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon on August 4, 1900, was the ninth child and fourth daughter of Claude Bowes-Lyon, Lord Glamis, and Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck. Her early education was conducted at home, guided by governesses, until the age of eight, when she began attending private schools in London. Demonstrating academic prowess, Elizabeth passed the Oxford Local Examination with merit at age thirteen, highlighting her dedication to learning even at a young age.
As World War I commenced on Elizabeth's 14th birthday, her family home, Glamis Castle, served as a hospital. While she was too young to serve as a nurse, Elizabeth contributed to wartime efforts alongside her family, supporting initiatives to aid soldiers. The war had a profound impact on her, as she lost her brother Fergus to the Battle of Loos in 1915. This early exposure to both education and the realities of life during wartime shaped her character, instilling resilience and a sense of duty that would follow her throughout her life.
Marriage to King George VI and Family Life
Queen Elizabeth, known as the Queen Mother, married Prince Albert, who later became King George VI, on April 26, 1923. Their union was founded on love and mutual support, an aspect that became particularly evident during their family life. The couple welcomed two daughters: Elizabeth, born in 1926, and Margaret, born in 1930. Throughout the first decade of their marriage, they established a close-knit family, characterized by warmth and affection. Elizabeth played a vital role in helping Albert overcome his speech impediment, working closely with his speech therapist to assist in his recovery. Their strong bond would prove vital for both their personal and public lives as they faced numerous challenges together.
The royal couple found joy in their family life despite the pressures that came with their status. Their home was filled with laughter, play, and shared moments of intimacy, forging a nurturing environment for their daughters. Elizabeth's dedication to family life was evident as she balanced her royal duties with motherhood. As the winds of change swept across Europe leading to World War II, their family unit became even more crucial. The couple's ability to present a united front during turbulent times endeared them to the British public, showcasing their commitment not only to each other but also to the nation they served. Their marriage and family life laid a strong foundation for their roles as sovereigns during a time of great uncertainty.
Queen and the Challenges of Abdication
The abdication crisis of 1936 profoundly altered the lives of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and her husband, Albert. Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, ascended the throne as King Edward VIII, but his love for American divorcée Wallis Simpson sparked a national controversy. Faced with opposition from the government and public regarding his desire to marry, Edward chose to abdicate. This unexpected turn of events propelled Albert into kingship, and he reluctantly accepted the crown, taking the title King George VI. Elizabeth, who had never anticipated being queen, stood by her husband, fully committing to her new role, showcasing her strength and resilience during a tumultuous time.
As King George VI and Queen Elizabeth prepared for their coronation in May 1937, the couple confronted the challenges of leadership during a period of uncertainty. The abdication had significantly affected public sentiments, causing widespread anxiety about the monarchy's future. The newly crowned couple endeavored to restore faith in the royal family, emphasizing duty and national service. They understood that their reign would require not only public engagement but also unwavering support for their nation as it faced the looming threat of World War II. Elizabeth's commitment and compassion proved vital, as she established a deep connection with the British people, embodying the ideals of perseverance and unity in a time of crisis.
World War II: A Royal Duty
During World War II, Queen Elizabeth, known as the Queen Mother, emerged as a symbol of resilience and strength for the British public. Refusing to evacuate to safety, she steadfastly chose to remain in the UK with her husband, King George VI, and their children. Her unwavering support boosted morale during the tumultuous years of the war. She participated in public engagements, toured war hospitals, and shared the risks faced by ordinary citizens, earning her deep admiration. The Queen Mother’s determination to stand alongside her people solidified her status as a beloved figure in British society.
As the war progressed, Queen Elizabeth played a pivotal role in rallying the nation against adversity. She frequently visited troops on the front lines and toured factories and bomb sites, showing solidarity with those enduring the hardships of war. Her heartfelt addresses, including a poignant message to the women of France, resonated deeply, fostering hope and a sense of unity. The Queen Mother also faced personal loss during this time, mourning the deaths of loved ones who perished in the conflict. Her fortitude in the face of such trials exemplified her dedication to her family and country, marking her as a key figure in Britain’s wartime narrative.
Personal Life: Children and Relationships
Queen Mother Elizabeth had a close-knit family life with her husband, King George VI, and their two daughters, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret. Their marriage was characterized by mutual support and love, particularly as King George VI faced challenges, including his stammer. Elizabeth actively participated in his speech therapy sessions, strengthening their bond and demonstrating the depth of her commitment. Together, they created a nurturing environment for their daughters, instilling values of duty and service in a time of national uncertainty, especially during World War II, when they remained steadfast alongside the British public.
As a mother, Queen Elizabeth maintained a strong connection with her children, particularly with her elder daughter, Elizabeth, who would later ascend the throne as Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen Mother embraced her role as a grandmother with dedication and affection, often offering guidance to her grandchildren, including Prince Charles. Her relationship with Princess Diana, who married Charles, also marked a significant chapter in her life. Initially welcoming Diana into the royal family, their bond shifted after Charles and Diana's divorce, reflecting the Queen Mother's values and her desire to support her family while navigating the complexities of royal life.
Net Worth and Earning: Royal Wealth
Queen Mother Elizabeth, recognized for her resilience and warmth as the Queen consort of King George VI, enjoyed an affluent lifestyle characteristic of British royalty. While specific details regarding her personal net worth are not widely available, it is known that her wealth stemmed primarily from the British royal family's extensive estates and properties. The Queen Mother had access to the Duchy of Lancaster, which provided the royal family with substantial income from investments, real estate, and agricultural land. Additionally, the Queen Mother earned a significant allowance from the Civil List, a government payment system intended to support the royal family in performing their public duties.
Throughout her life, Queen Mother Elizabeth was known for her passion for horseracing and gardening, owning several valuable thoroughbred horses that added to her wealth. The royal family's investments in various assets, including art collections and historical properties, further contributed to her financial standing. Moreover, her public engagements and charitable work increased her visibility and popularity, which, while not directly translating to personal wealth, reinforced the royal family's enduring legacy and dynamics of support within the British monarchy. As a result, Queen Mother's contributions to the royal household and her extensive experiences enriched not only her life but also the royal family's status and influence.
