The Queen of England died on September 8, 2022 at Balmoral Castle surrounded by family. Many Americans mourned alongside the UK. For instance, in Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker ordered flags to be flown at half mast until her funeral. I firmly believe that the Queen had a significant impact on the American people despite the fact that the country is not ruled by the British monarchy. The effect she had entirely warranted widespread mourning. 

On April 21, 1926 Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary was born in Mayfair, London, and was the first born child of the future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth. She led a full and long life becoming the longest reigning monarch to date after 70 years on the throne, her platinum jubilee occurring on Feb 6th 2022. 

Aside from her lengthy reign on the British throne, she attracted interest throughout the world leaving many people in mourning after her passing. As an American with British roots I believe that worldwide mourning is called for.

Despite the War of Independence and the War of 1812 The United States has stayed on good terms with Britain since and they are currently one of America’s most important allies. This bond is one that has been established by sacrifice, a shared language, and a shared set of similar core principles with the Queen as one of the heads of their relations. 

She also demonstrated her capacity for kindness and service while enduring hardships.  For example, Queen Elizabeth guided not only her nation but the entire world through incredibly trying times, such as the 9/11 attacks, when she for the first time ever requested for “The Star Spangled Banner” to play during the twice-daily changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace rather than “God Save The Queen.”

Throughout my life I had always heard about her legacy, which helped me to feel rooted in my British heritage. She deserved the praise she received because she excelled at what she did. In addition to the UK, the US, and the rest of the globe will miss her as well.

Image sources: Town and Country Magazine, Biography.com