Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning monarch in British history and a symbol of stability in an era of sweeping social and political change, has died at age 96, Wall Street Journal writes.
Tributes poured in as Buckingham Palace announced Thursday that Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II has died. The 96-year-old monarch—who ascended the throne when Winston Churchill was prime minister—was a symbol of stability in an era of sweeping social and political change.
The queen’s eldest son, Charles, inherits a monarchythat faces the challenge of hewing to ancient tradition while adapting to reflect modern Britain. The 73-year-old king, who will reign as Charles III, said in his first statement that the queen’s death would be felt “by countless people around the world.”
Somber crowds gathered outside Buckingham Palace and flags were lowered to half-staff as plans began for 10 days of commemoration before the queen’s funeral.
