Today In History: Queen Elizabeth II Surpasses Queen Victoria as Longest-Reigning Monarch
- Queen Elizabeth II surpasses Queen Victoria to become the longest-reigning British monarch
- Leaders from various political spheres commended the Queen’s enduring stability
- Queen Elizabeth II received a bound copy of 1952 cabinet papers
Queen Elizabeth II has expressed her heartfelt gratitude to well-wishers from around the globe as she surpasses her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, to become the longest-reigning monarch in British history.
At 89 years old, the Queen achieved this milestone on a day when she had reigned for 23,226 days, 16 hours, and about 30 minutes.
In a statement delivered in the Scottish Borders, the Queen reflected on her unprecedented reign, noting that becoming the longest-reigning monarch was never a personal aspiration.
Despite the historic achievement, she described the day as “normal” and continued her duties with her iconic turquoise outfit and black handbag at her side.
Prime Minister David Cameron praised the Queen’s steadfast service as “truly humbling,” highlighting her role as a “rock of stability” through decades of change. In the House of Commons, MPs took a half-hour break to honor the Queen’s remarkable service, with Mr. Cameron describing her reign as a “golden thread” linking three post-war generations.
Labour’s acting leader, Harriet Harman, echoed sentiments of global admiration for the Queen, asserting that she is “admired by billions worldwide.”
Additionally, ministers plan to present the Queen with a bound copy of the 1952 cabinet papers from Sir Winston Churchill’s government, marking the start of her historic reign.
In the House of Lords, Baroness Stowell celebrated the Queen’s service, noting her “unerring grace, dignity, and decency,” and wishing for her continued presence.
