What was Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother's full birth name and lifespan?

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother's full birth name was Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon. She was born on August 4, 1900, and passed away on March 30, 2002, living to the age of 101.

What were Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother's primary royal titles and the periods she held them?

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon served as Queen of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from December 11, 1936, to February 6, 1952, as the wife of King George VI. She was also the last Empress consort of India from December 11, 1936, until August 15, 1947, when the British Raj was dissolved. After her husband's death, she became known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.

Why was Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon officially known as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother?

Following the death of her husband, King George VI, she was officially styled as Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This title was adopted to prevent confusion with her elder daughter, who succeeded him as Queen Elizabeth II.

What was Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's family background?

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon was born into a family of British nobility. Her father was Claude Bowes-Lyon, the 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and her mother was Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck, who was descended from prominent figures like William Cavendish-Bentinck, 3rd Duke of Portland, and Richard Wellesley, 1st Marquess Wellesley.

Where was Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon born, and is there any uncertainty about the location?

The exact location of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's birth is uncertain. It is reputed that she was born either in her parents' Westminster home or in a horse-drawn ambulance on the way to a hospital. Her birth was registered in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, near her family's country house.

What were Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's early childhood homes and educational experiences?

Elizabeth spent much of her childhood at St Paul's Walden and Glamis Castle in Scotland. She was initially educated at home by a governess, showing early aptitude by beginning an essay with Greek words. She later attended a school in London before returning to private education, passing the Oxford Local Examination with distinction at age thirteen.

How did World War I affect Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's family?

During World War I, four of Elizabeth's brothers served in the army. Her elder brother, Fergus, was killed in action at the Battle of Loos in 1915, and another brother, Michael, was captured and held as a prisoner of war. Glamis Castle was converted into a convalescent home for wounded soldiers, which Elizabeth helped manage.

Who was Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon's first love, and what happened to him?

Elizabeth's first love was Charles Gordon-Lennox, Lord Settrington. He died from wounds received in action while serving as an officer in World War I on August 24, 1919. Elizabeth described him as her "only true friend".

When did Prince Albert, Duke of York, first propose to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, and why did she initially refuse?

Prince Albert, Duke of York, first proposed to Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon in 1921. She refused his proposal, stating she was "afraid never, never again to be free to think, speak and act as I feel I really ought to," indicating concerns about the constraints of royal life.

What was the significance of Prince Albert choosing Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon as his bride?

Prince Albert's choice of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, who was not a member of a royal family (though she was the daughter of a peer), was considered a gesture favoring political modernization. Previously, princes were generally expected to marry princesses from other royal houses.

Describe Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Prince Albert's wedding.

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon married Prince Albert, Duke of York, on April 26, 1923, at Westminster Abbey. In a poignant gesture, she laid her wedding bouquet at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior on her way into the abbey, in memory of her brother Fergus who died in World War I.

What notable event occurred during Elizabeth and Albert's honeymoon period?

Following their wedding and honeymoon at Polesden Lacey, Elizabeth and Albert traveled to Scotland, where Elizabeth contracted whooping cough. This illness caused her to miss some engagements.

What was Elizabeth's role as Duchess of York during their tour of East Africa?

As Duchess of York, Elizabeth accompanied Prince Albert on a tour of East Africa from December 1924 to April 1925. During this period, she undertook various public engagements.

How did Elizabeth assist her husband, the Duke of York, with his speech impediment?

Prince Albert, Duke of York, suffered from a stammer that affected his public speaking. Elizabeth played a key role in helping him through the speech therapy devised by Lionel Logue, an experience later depicted in the film 'The King's Speech'.

What was the context for Prince Albert becoming King George VI?

Prince Albert became King George VI on December 11, 1936, following the abdication of his elder brother, King Edward VIII. Edward VIII abdicated his throne to marry Wallis Simpson, an American divorcée, which led to a constitutional crisis.

What was the significance of Elizabeth's crown for her coronation?

For her coronation as Queen consort in 1937, Elizabeth wore a crown made of platinum, which was notably set with the Koh-i-Noor diamond. This crown was specifically designed for her coronation.

How did Elizabeth and her husband, King George VI, respond to the abdication crisis involving Edward VIII and Wallis Simpson?

Elizabeth supported her husband's decision to withhold the style of Royal Highness from Wallis Simpson after Edward VIII's abdication. While Edward VIII became the Duke of Windsor, Wallis did not receive the same royal styling, a decision Elizabeth backed.

What was the purpose of the royal couple's tour of Canada and the United States in 1939?

The royal tour of Canada and the United States in 1939, the first by a reigning monarch to Canada, was intended to bolster trans-Atlantic support in anticipation of potential war and to affirm Canada's status as an independent kingdom sharing the same monarch as Britain.

How did Queen Elizabeth provide moral support during the Second World War?

During the Second World War, Queen Elizabeth and King George VI became symbols of resistance against fascism. Elizabeth publicly refused to leave London or send their daughters away, even during the Blitz, stating, "The children won't go without me. I won't leave the King. And the King will never leave." She also visited troops, hospitals, and bombed areas, offering comfort and solidarity.

What was the initial public reaction to Queen Elizabeth's visits to bombed areas during the Blitz, and how did she address it?

Initially, Queen Elizabeth's visits to areas like the East End of London during the Blitz sometimes met with hostility, including jeering and thrown rubbish, partly due to her wearing expensive clothes. She explained that she dressed well to reciprocate the public's effort to present themselves nicely when meeting her, and her designer Norman Hartnell dressed her in colors that symbolized hope.

What did Queen Elizabeth say after Buckingham Palace was bombed during the Blitz?

After Buckingham Palace sustained bomb damage during the Blitz, Queen Elizabeth famously remarked, "I'm glad we've been bombed. It makes me feel I can look the East End in the face." This statement highlighted her solidarity with those enduring the worst of the air raids.

How did Queen Elizabeth's role change after King George VI's death?

After King George VI's death in 1952, Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. Although devastated, she resumed public duties after a brief retirement and became a prominent figure, acting as a matriarch for the royal family and maintaining high public approval.

What was the Queen Mother's experience with cancer?

The Queen Mother battled several forms of cancer during her life, though these were not publicly disclosed at the time. She underwent surgery for colon cancer in 1966 and for breast cancer in 1984. She also had a lump removed from her breast in 1984.

What was the Queen Mother's reputation for longevity?

In her later years, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother became widely known for her remarkable longevity. She celebrated her 90th, 100th, and 101st birthdays, continuing her public engagements until shortly before her death at the age of 101.

What incident occurred during the Queen Mother's 100th birthday celebrations at the Guildhall?

During a lunch at the Guildhall, London, to celebrate her 100th birthday, the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey, accidentally attempted to drink her glass of wine. The Queen Mother's quick admonition, "That's mine!", caused widespread amusement.

What were some of the Queen Mother's final public engagements before her death?

In the months leading up to her death, the Queen Mother attended several public engagements. These included planting a cross at the Field of Remembrance in November 2001, attending a reception for the 600 Squadron, Royal Auxiliary Air Force, and being present at the re-commissioning of HMS Ark Royal.

What happened to the Queen Mother in the months leading up to her death?

In December 2001, at age 101, she fractured her pelvis in a fall. Despite this, she insisted on standing for the national anthem at her husband's memorial service. Shortly after, her younger daughter, Princess Margaret, died, and the Queen Mother herself fell and cut her arm, though she attended Margaret's funeral shortly after.

How was the Queen Mother remembered after her death?

The Queen Mother was remembered for her charm, optimism, and sense of duty. An estimated 200,000 people filed past her coffin as she lay in state at Westminster Hall. Her funeral procession was watched by over a million people, and she was laid to rest beside her husband and younger daughter.

What was the Queen Mother's contribution to the stability of the British monarchy?

Known for her personal and public charm, the Queen Mother was one of the most popular members of the royal family. Her consistent popularity and dedication helped to stabilize the overall public perception and approval of the British monarchy.

What criticisms were leveled against the Queen Mother, and how were they addressed?

Criticisms included claims by Kitty Kelley that she disregarded wartime rationing, which official records contradicted. Claims of racist slurs were denied by her former equerry. While she privately expressed distrust of Germans, she also reportedly abhorred racial discrimination and decried apartheid.

What was the Queen Mother's personal style and sense of humor?

She was known for her indomitable optimism, zest for life, good manners, and a mischievous sense of humor. Biographers noted her ability to handle difficult situations with grace and wit, often disarming critics or tense moments with a well-timed remark.

What was the significance of the RMS Queen Elizabeth being named after her?

The Cunard White Star Line's ocean liner RMS Queen Elizabeth was named in her honor. She officially launched the ship in Clydebank, Scotland, in 1938, famously smashing a bottle of Australian red wine over its bow at the last moment.

What was revealed about the Queen Mother's musical tastes?

Details of her record collection revealed an eclectic taste. She enjoyed ska, folk music, Scottish reels, and musicals like 'Oklahoma!' and 'The King and I'. She also listened to artists such as Montana Slim, Tony Hancock, The Goons, and Noel Coward.

What was the estimated value of the Queen Mother's estate, and how was it distributed?

The Queen Mother's estate was estimated to be worth between £50 and £70 million. She left the bulk of it, including paintings, Fabergé eggs, jewelry, and horses, to her surviving daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. She had also placed a significant portion of her money into trusts for her great-grandchildren.

What was the Queen Mother's coat of arms?

Elizabeth's coat of arms combined the royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom with the canting arms of her father, the Earl of Strathmore. The Strathmore arms featured a lion rampant and three bows, reflecting the family names Lyon and Bowes.

Who were the Queen Mother's children, and what were their titles?

The Queen Mother had two daughters: Princess Elizabeth, who became Queen Elizabeth II, and Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon. Both daughters were married and had children.

What was the Queen Mother's relationship with her sister-in-law, Wallis Simpson?

The Queen Mother reportedly referred to Wallis Simpson as "that woman," while Wallis called the Queen Mother "Cookie." Despite claims of bitterness, close friends denied any deep animosity, with the Duke of Grafton stating Elizabeth never said anything "nasty" about the Duchess of Windsor except that she "really hadn't got a clue what she was dealing with."

How did the Queen Mother's visits to France in the late 1970s and 1980s contribute to her public image?

Between 1976 and 1984, she made annual summer visits to France, among many private trips to continental Europe. These visits, along with her extensive overseas travel throughout her widowhood, reinforced her image as a dedicated public figure.

What was the Queen Mother's stance on employing homosexual individuals?

When advised by a Conservative minister in the 1970s not to employ homosexuals, the Queen Mother reportedly responded, "we'd have to go self-service." This remark suggested her pragmatic and inclusive approach to staffing.

What was the Queen Mother's reaction to receiving a large gift of champagne?

Upon receiving a large bottle of champagne (a nebuchadnezzar), she humorously stated, "I'll polish it off myself," even if her family couldn't join her for the holidays, showcasing her wit and independent spirit.

What was the context of the Queen Mother's visit to Iran in 1975?

In 1975, Elizabeth visited Iran at the invitation of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi. The British ambassador noted that Iranians were impressed by her habit of speaking to everyone regardless of status, suggesting it was a lesson in public engagement.

How did the Queen Mother handle a fish bone incident in 1982?

In 1982, the Queen Mother was hospitalized after a fish bone became lodged in her throat. After surgery to remove it, she calmly joked about the incident, "The salmon have got their own back," demonstrating her characteristic humor even in adversity.

What was the Queen Mother's relationship with horse racing?

She developed a significant interest in horse racing, particularly steeplechasing, which was inspired by Lord Mildmay of Flete. She owned approximately 500 race winners and followed the races closely, having commentaries piped directly to her residence.

What was the significance of the Queen Mother's visit to the University of Zimbabwe in 1957?

During her 1957 visit to the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, she laid the foundation stone for the University College of Rhodesia and Nyasaland (now the University of Zimbabwe). Upon her return in 1957, she was inaugurated as the college's president, attending events designed to be multi-racial.

What artistic works did the Queen Mother collect?

As an art collector, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother acquired works by notable artists such as Claude Monet, Augustus John, and Peter Carl Fabergé, among others, reflecting her refined taste in art.

How did the Queen Mother's family react to her death?

Her surviving daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, was by her side when she passed away. The Queen Mother's death was followed shortly by the death of her younger daughter, Princess Margaret, highlighting a period of significant loss for the royal family.

What was the Queen Mother's legacy regarding public perception of the monarchy?

The Queen Mother's legacy includes her significant role in maintaining the popularity and stability of the British monarchy. Her consistent public charm, dedication, and longevity made her a beloved figure who helped bolster the institution's image during times of change.

What was the Queen Mother's role in the 1937 Coronation?

On May 12, 1937, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon was crowned Queen consort alongside her husband, King George VI, in Westminster Abbey. This date had originally been scheduled for Edward VIII's coronation.

What was the Queen Mother's connection to the Castle of Mey?

The Queen Mother oversaw the restoration of the Castle of Mey in northern Scotland. She used it as a private retreat, typically spending three weeks in August and ten days in October there each year to escape public duties.

What was the Queen Mother's opinion on apartheid?

Although she rarely disclosed political views publicly, Robert Rhodes James recorded that in private, the Queen Mother "abhorred racial discrimination" and described apartheid as "dreadful," indicating a personal opposition to the system.

How did the Queen Mother handle a student protest involving toilet rolls?

During a visit to the University of Dundee in 1968, students pelted the royal party with toilet rolls. The Queen Mother calmly picked up the rolls and returned them to the students, saying, 'Was this yours? Oh, could you take it?' Her composed and disarming reaction effectively silenced the protest.

Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Wiki: Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon: A Royal Life of Service and Resilience

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Early Life

Noble Origins

Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon was born on 4 August 1900, the ninth of ten children to Claude Bowes-Lyon, the 14th Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, and Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck. Her lineage traced back to prominent British aristocratic families, including connections to past Prime Ministers and Governors-General.^[c]

Education and Childhood

Her early education was primarily at home, but she later attended school in London, demonstrating precocious intellectual abilities. She excelled in literature and scripture, passing Oxford Local Examinations with distinction by age thirteen. Her childhood was spent between her family's estates in Scotland and England, fostering a love for country pursuits.^[11]

World War I Influence

During World War I, Elizabeth's family estate, Glamis Castle, was converted into a convalescent home for wounded soldiers. She actively participated in their care. The war also brought personal tragedy, with the loss of her brother Fergus at the Battle of Loos.^[13]

Marriage to Prince Albert

Courtship and Proposal

Prince Albert, Duke of York, the second son of King George V, proposed to Elizabeth twice before she accepted. Initially hesitant about the constraints of royal life, she eventually agreed to marry him in January 1923. Their union was seen as a step towards modernizing the monarchy, moving away from the tradition of princes marrying foreign princesses.^[24]

The Wedding Day

The royal wedding took place on 26 April 1923, at Westminster Abbey. In a poignant gesture, Elizabeth laid her bouquet at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, commemorating her deceased brother.^[28] Following the ceremony, she became styled as Her Royal Highness The Duchess of York.^[30]

Early Royal Tours

As Duchess of York, Elizabeth and Prince Albert undertook significant public engagements, including tours to East Africa (1924-1925) and Australia and New Zealand (1927). These tours were public relations successes, enhancing their image and connection with the Commonwealth.^[32]^[35]

Queen Consort

Unexpected Ascension

The abdication of Edward VIII in December 1936 thrust Elizabeth's husband, Albert, onto the throne as King George VI. Elizabeth became Queen consort, a role she embraced with characteristic poise. Their coronation followed on 12 May 1937.^[45]

Wartime Resilience

During World War II, Elizabeth became a potent symbol of national resistance against fascism. She famously refused to leave London during the Blitz, stating, "The children won't go without me. I won't leave the King. And the King will never leave." Her visits to bombed areas, despite initial criticism for her attire, provided crucial moral support.^[73]

Diplomatic Efforts

Prior to the war, the King and Queen undertook a significant tour of Canada and the United States in 1939. This diplomatic mission aimed to solidify support from North America and was a resounding success, greatly improving the public perception of the royal couple.^[55]

The Queen Mother

Widowhood and Resilience

Following King George VI's death in 1952, Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother to avoid confusion with her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II. Though devastated, she resumed her public duties after a brief retirement, becoming a constant presence and support to the monarchy.^[92]

Interests and Longevity

In her later years, the Queen Mother developed a passion for horse racing and became a successful owner. She was also known for her remarkable longevity, celebrating her 100th birthday in 2000. Her public engagements continued actively until shortly before her death.^[102]^[120]

Public Persona

She was widely admired for her cheerful demeanor, resilience, and dry wit. Despite occasional criticisms and media portrayals, she remained one of the most popular members of the royal family, contributing significantly to the monarchy's stability.^[4]

Enduring Legacy

Public Affection

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon cultivated an image of warmth, charm, and unwavering duty. Her consistent public presence and perceived resilience, particularly during wartime, earned her widespread affection and respect across generations. She played a vital role in maintaining the public's connection to the monarchy.^[154]

Wit and Wisdom

Known for her sharp wit and memorable quips, the Queen Mother often disarmed critics and charmed the public with her timely remarks. Her ability to navigate challenging situations with grace and humor became a hallmark of her public life.^[114]

Cultural Impact

Her life and persona have been depicted in numerous films and television series, including "The King's Speech" and "The Crown," cementing her place in popular culture. The Queen Elizabeth Way Monument in Toronto stands as a testament to her enduring connection with the Commonwealth.^[177]

Titles and Arms

Royal Styles

Throughout her life, Elizabeth held numerous titles, beginning with her birth as the daughter of an Earl. Upon marrying Prince Albert, she became the Duchess of York. As Queen consort, she was Queen of the United Kingdom and Empress consort of India. In widowhood, she was styled Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother.^[92]

Heraldic Representation

Her coat of arms combined the Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom with the canting arms of her father, the Earl of Strathmore. These heraldic representations visually symbolized her dual heritage and her royal status.^[191]

Issue and Descendants

Children

Elizabeth and King George VI had two daughters: Princess Elizabeth, who ascended the throne as Queen Elizabeth II, and Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon.^[42]

Grandchildren

Her descendants include Charles III, Anne, Princess Royal, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, along with their children and grandchildren, forming a significant lineage within the modern British royal family.^[193]

Ancestral Roots

Genealogical Lineage

Elizabeth's ancestry was deeply rooted in the British aristocracy. Detailed genealogical charts trace her lineage back through generations of noble families, highlighting her connections to influential figures in British history.^[193]

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about queen_elizabeth_the_queen_mother while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

west end girls swedish band

archdiocese of carthage

basketball at the 2008 summer olympics– men's tournament

incidents in the life of a slave girl

emmett till

bailey county texas

References

Civil Registration Indexes: Births, General Register Office, England and Wales. JulâSep 1900 Hitchin, vol. 3a, p. 667

Letter from George VI to Winston Churchill in which the King says his family shared his view, quoted by Howarth, p. 143

Michie, Alan A. (17 March 1941) Life Magazine, quoted by Vickers, p. 224

Hartnell, Norman (1955), Silver and Gold, Evans Bros., pp. 101â102, quoted in Shawcross, p. 526 and Vickers, p. 219

The memoirs of the Rt. Hon. the Earl of Woolton C.H., P.C., D.L., LL.D. (1959) London: Cassell

A full list of references for this article are available at the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, genealogical, or biographical consultation. Always refer to primary sources and consult with qualified experts for specific research needs. Never disregard professional advice because of something you have read on this website.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Early Life 👶

aristocratic Noble Origins

🎓 Education and Childhood

🕊️ World War I Influence

Marriage to Prince Albert 💍

❤️ Courtship and Proposal

💒 The Wedding Day

🌍 Early Royal Tours

Queen Consort 👑

abdication Unexpected Ascension

⚔️ Wartime Resilience

🇺🇸 Diplomatic Efforts

The Queen Mother 👵

💔 Widowhood and Resilience

🏇 Interests and Longevity

🍸 Public Persona

Enduring Legacy 🌟

💖 Public Affection

🗣️ Wit and Wisdom

🏛️ Cultural Impact

Titles and Arms 📜

👑 Royal Styles

⚜️ Heraldic Representation

Issue and Descendants 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

👑 Children

👶 Grandchildren

Ancestral Roots 🌳

📜 Genealogical Lineage

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Early Life

Noble Origins

Education and Childhood

World War I Influence

Marriage to Prince Albert

Courtship and Proposal

The Wedding Day

Early Royal Tours

Queen Consort

Unexpected Ascension

Wartime Resilience

Diplomatic Efforts

The Queen Mother

Widowhood and Resilience

Interests and Longevity

Public Persona

Enduring Legacy

Public Affection

Wit and Wisdom

Cultural Impact

Titles and Arms

Royal Styles

Heraldic Representation

Issue and Descendants

Children

Grandchildren

Ancestral Roots

Genealogical Lineage

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice