Not many people can say to have lived long enough to witness some of the most important events of our history, from the Great Depression to World War II and Brexit. Queen Elizabeth II is one of them, with 70 years and 214 days of service to her country under her crown, which makes it difficult for people to wrap their heads around the fact such an iconic figure passed away! She has been one of the longest-reigning monarchs, second only to Louis XIV, and a constant presence in British culture, inspiring several generations with her charm and dedication. Being a queen is no easy job, but she committed most of her time on this Earth to it.
Queen Elizabeth II has become known for her sharp wit, unshakeable poise, and impeccable fashion sense, which won her people’s hearts. Even after her death, her persona continues to inspire them with her unwavering dedication to duty. Her love for Britain was evident in everything she did, from attending official ceremonies to her charity work. Throughout her reign, Her Majesty was associated with more than 600 charities and organizations — ranging from fencing and physiotherapy to bereavement care and women’s issues.
With such a vast curriculum of experiences under her belt, it’s no wonder the Queen of England delivered some iconic quotes and speeches. To commemorate her legendary rule, we’ve compiled a list with some of our favorite quotes by Queen Elizabeth II. Whether you are a long-time fan of the royal family or a newcomer to Her Majesty’s life story, you will have no trouble recognizing the wisdom, resolution, and heart she shared in these words.
#1
"Grief is the price we pay for love."
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#2
"Good memories are our second chance at happiness."
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#3
"I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong."
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#4
“Often a child's helplessness and vulnerability bring out the best in us.”
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#5
"It has been women who have breathed gentleness and care into the harsh progress of mankind."
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#6
"While we have faced challenges before, this one is different. This time we join with all nations across the globe in a common endeavour, using the great advances of science and our instinctive compassion to heal. We will succeed - and that success will belong to every one of us."
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#7
"It's all to do with the training: you can do a lot if you're properly trained."
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#8
"The world is not the most pleasant place. Eventually, your parents leave you and nobody is going to go out of their way to protect you unconditionally. You need to learn to stand up for yourself and what you believe and sometimes, pardon my language, kick some a**."
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#9
"For me, heaven is likely to be a bit of a come-down."
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#10
“While we may have more still to endure, better days will return: we will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.”
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#11
“With age does come experience and that can be a virtue if it is sensibly used.”
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#12
"Giant leaps often start with small steps."
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#13
"Even when your life seems most monotonous, what you do is always of real value and importance to your fellow men."
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#14
"I can never wear beige because nobody will know who I am."
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#15
"I have in sincerity pledged myself to your service, as so many of you are pledged to mine. Throughout all my life and with all my heart I shall strive to be worthy of your trust."
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#16
"The Bible tells how a star appeared in the sky, its light guiding the shepherds and wise men to the scene of Jesus’s birth."
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#17
"Work is the rent you pay for the room you occupy on earth."
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#18
“When peace comes, remember it will be for us, the children of today, to make the world of tomorrow a better and happier place.”
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#19
"We all need to get the balance right between action and reflection. With so many distractions, it is easy to forget to pause and take stock."
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#20
"Prince Philip is, I believe, well-known for declining compliments of any kind. But throughout he has been a constant strength and guide."
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