# Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother > Queen consort of the United Kingdom from 1936 to 1952 (1900–2002) **Wikidata**: [Q10633](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q10633) **Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Queen_Elizabeth_the_Queen_Mother) **Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/queen-elizabeth-the-queen-mother ## Summary Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother (born Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon on August 4, 1900; died March 30, 2002) was the queen consort of the British Empire from 1936 to 1952 as the wife of King George VI, and later became the mother of Queen Elizabeth II. She served as Queen Consort during a pivotal period in British history, supporting her husband through World War II and the challenges of the post-war era, before becoming the longest-lived member of the British royal family in modern history. ## Biography - **Born**: August 4, 1900 - **Died**: March 30, 2002 - **Nationality**: British (citizen of United Kingdom and historically United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland) - **Full Name**: The Honourable Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon - **Education**: Private education befitting aristocratic upbringing - **Known for**: Serving as Queen Consort of the British Empire (1936–1952); mother of Queen Elizabeth II; providing stability and morale during World War II - **Employer(s)**: British royal family; the monarchy of the United Kingdom - **Field(s)**: Royalty; constitutional monarchy; public service; diplomacy - **Part of**: British royal family (Q63195753, Q645968) - **Member of**: Q123885 - **Website**: https://www.royal.uk/queen-elizabeth-queen-mother ## Contributions Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother made significant contributions across multiple domains throughout her long life: ### Royal and Public Service - **Queen Consort (1936–1952)**: Served as queen consort to King George VI following the abdication crisis of 1936, providing stability during one of the most tumultuous periods in modern British history. Her presence and demeanor helped restore public confidence in the monarchy. - **World War II Role**: Played a crucial role in maintaining national morale during World War II, famously remaining in London during the Blitz and visiting bombed areas to boost civilian spirits. Her refusal to leave London despite German bombing raids earned her widespread admiration. - **Post-War Representation**: Represented the British monarchy at numerous international events and state visits, helping to maintain the UK's diplomatic relationships and cultural influence during the decolonization era. - **Mother of the Monarch**: As mother of Queen Elizabeth II, she played an influential role in the transition from the British Empire to the modern Commonwealth, advising her daughter and helping shape the modern British monarchy. ### Cultural and Charitable Patronage - **Royal Horticulture**: Received the Victoria Medal of Honour from the Royal Horticultural Society, reflecting her deep interest in gardening and rural affairs. - **Military and Service Recognition**: Received the Decoration of the Royal Red Cross for contribution to health services, and the War Cross (Norway's highest military honor) for her wartime efforts. - **Educational Institutions**: Honored by the University of Auckland with an honorary doctorate, recognizing her contributions to international relations and charitable causes. ### International Relations - **Diplomatic Impact**: Through her public appearances, state visits, and charitable work, she strengthened bonds between the United Kingdom and numerous Commonwealth nations and international partners. - **Honors from Multiple Nations**: Received decorations and honors from numerous countries including France (Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour), Norway (War Cross), Romania (Order of the Crown of Romania), Serbia (Order of St. Sava), Nepal (Order of Ojaswi Rajanya), Greece (Order of Saints Olga and Sophia), and Tunisia (Order of Independence). ## FAQs **What was Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother's role during World War II?** Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother became a symbol of British resilience during World War II. She famously declared "The children will not leave unless I tell them to leave. I shall not leave until the King tells me to leave," and remained in London throughout the Blitz, visiting bombed areas and boosting civilian morale. Her presence and determination helped maintain national spirit during some of the UK's darkest hours. **How was Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother related to the current British monarchy?** She was the mother of Queen Elizabeth II (born April 21, 1926) and grandmother to King Charles III. She became the Queen Mother upon the death of her husband, King George VI, in 1952, when her daughter ascended to the throne. **What honors and awards did Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother receive?** She received numerous honors including the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour (France), War Cross (Norway), Royal Victorian Chain, Order of the Thistle (Scotland), Order of New Zealand, Victoria Medal of Honour (Royal Horticultural Society), Decoration of the Royal Red Cross, and honorary doctor of the University of Auckland. She also held the Royal Family Order of George VI and the Royal Family Order of Elizabeth II. **What was her birth name and family background?** She was born The Honourable Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon on August 4, 1900, into the Bowes-Lyon family, a prominent British aristocratic family with Scottish roots. She was the ninth of ten children. **What happened to Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother in her later years?** After the death of King George VI in 1952, she became known as the Queen Mother and continued to carry out royal duties well into her later years. She celebrated her 100th birthday in 2000, becoming the first member of the British royal family to reach that milestone in the modern era. She died on March 30, 2002, at the age of 101. ## Why They Matter Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother matters profoundly in British and Commonwealth history for several interconnected reasons: ### Stabilizing the Monarchy Her marriage to Prince Albert (later King George VI) in 1923 and her subsequent role as queen consort proved crucial to the survival and modernization of the British monarchy. When King Edward VIII abdicated in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson, Elizabeth's husband unexpectedly became king, and she became queen consort at a moment's notice. Her grace, dignity, and popularity helped the monarchy weather this constitutional crisis and emerge with public support intact. ### Wartime Leadership During World War II, her refusal to evacuate to safety while London was being bombed demonstrated remarkable courage and commitment to the British people. Her visits to bombed neighborhoods, factories, and military installations helped maintain civilian morale. This wartime role cemented her place in the national consciousness and established the royal family as symbols of British resilience. ### Mother of a Reigning Monarch As mother of Queen Elizabeth II, she provided guidance and continuity during the transition from empire to Commonwealth. Her experience as queen consort during the war years informed her advice to her daughter, helping shape the modern constitutional monarchy. Her longevity (living to 101) allowed her to witness her daughter's historic reign and the evolution of the royal family into the 21st century. ### Cultural Influence Her style, fashion choices, and public persona influenced British culture throughout the 20th century. Her support of the arts, horticulture, and charitable causes set a template for royal patronage that continues today. Her annual Christmas broadcasts and public appearances helped define the modern role of the British monarch as a unifying figurehead. ## Notable For - **Longevity**: Became the first member of the British royal family in modern history to celebrate her 100th birthday (August 4, 2000) - **Wartime Service**: Remained in London during the Blitz, becoming a symbol of British resistance; received Norway's War Cross for these efforts - **Queen Consort**: Served as queen consort from 1936 to 1952, supporting King George VI through World War II and post-war reconstruction - **Mother of the Queen**: Mother of Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for 70 years (1952–2022) - **Multiple International Honors**: Received decorations from France, Norway, Romania, Serbia, Nepal, Greece, and Tunisia - **Royal Family Orders**: Held both the Royal Family Order of George VI and the Royal Family Order of Elizabeth II - **Scottish Honor**: Appointed to the Order of the Thistle, Scotland's highest order of chivalry - **Horticultural Recognition**: Awarded the Victoria Medal of Honour by the Royal Horticultural Society - **Red Cross Service**: Received the Decoration of the Royal Red Cross for contributions to health services - **Honorary Citizenship**: Named honorary citizen of Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) for her wartime support ## Body ### Early Life and Background Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon was born on August 4, 1900, into the Bowes-Lyon family, one of Britain's most prominent aristocratic families with deep Scottish roots. She was the ninth of ten children born to Lord Glamis (later the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne) and his wife, Cecilia Cavendish-Bentinck. The Bowes-Lyon family had close ties to the royal family, with Elizabeth's mother being a descendant of the House of Stuart through the Dukes of Cleveland. Growing up at Glamis Castle in Scotland and St. Paul's Walden in Hertfordshire, Elizabeth received a private education typical of the British aristocracy. She developed a lifelong passion for horses, gardening, and the countryside that would characterize her public persona throughout her life. Her upbringing instilled in her a sense of duty and service that would later define her role as queen consort. ### Marriage and Accession to the Throne Elizabeth first met Prince Albert, Duke of York (the second son of King George V) at a social function in 1920. After a courtship period, they became engaged in 1921, and married on April 26, 1923, at Westminster Abbey. The marriage was notably modern for the time—Elizabeth was the first British princess to have a job before marriage, working as a nurse during World War I, and the couple broke with tradition by having their wedding broadcast on the radio. The couple's first child, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II), was born on April 21, 1926, in London. A second daughter, Princess Margaret, was born in 1930. The abdication crisis of 1936 dramatically altered Elizabeth's life. When King Edward VIII announced his intention to marry American divorcee Wallis Simpson, Prince Albert unexpectedly became king, and Elizabeth became queen consort on December 11, 1936. She was crowned alongside her husband at Westminster Abbey on May 12, 1937. ### World War II and the Blitz Queen Elizabeth's role during World War II cemented her place in British national memory. When Germany began bombing London in September 1940, she famously declared that she would not leave the capital. Her statement that "The children will not leave unless I tell them to leave. I shall not leave until the King tells me to leave" became emblematic of British resolve. Throughout the war, she accompanied King George VI on numerous visits to bombed cities, military installations, and factories. She took a particular interest in visiting women's services and nursing facilities. Her warmth and accessibility during these visits helped maintain civilian morale. She also supported the war effort through charitable work, including her patronage of the Red Cross and various welfare organizations. Her wartime service earned her international recognition, including Norway's War Cross, the highest military honor awarded to civilians. She was also named honorary citizen of Volgograd (formerly Stalingrad) in recognition of her support during the siege of that city. ### Post-War Reign and Royal Duties Following the end of World War II, Queen Elizabeth continued to fulfill her royal duties, representing the monarchy at home and abroad. She accompanied the King on state visits to numerous countries, helping to maintain Britain's diplomatic relationships during the decolonization era. Her grace and diplomacy helped smooth the transition of former colonies to independence while maintaining Commonwealth ties. She was known for her strong support of the Commonwealth, understanding its importance to Britain's post-war role in the world. Her visits to Commonwealth countries helped strengthen bonds that would prove crucial in the evolving relationship between Britain and its former territories. ### Widowhood and Role as Queen Mother King George VI died on February 6, 1952, and Elizabeth automatically became the Queen Mother. She adopted the title "Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother" to distinguish herself from her daughter, the new queen. This period marked a significant shift in her public role, as she took on the traditional function of a queen mother—advising her daughter while remaining out of the political spotlight. She continued to carry out royal duties throughout the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, though at a reduced pace. Her presence at major royal events, including coronations, weddings, and state openings of Parliament, provided continuity and stability. She was particularly close to her daughter, Queen Elizabeth II, and her grandchildren, including the future King Charles III. ### Later Life and Legacy Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother celebrated her 90th birthday in 1990 with a large royal celebration, and her 100th birthday in 2000 became a national event. She became the first member of the British royal family in modern history to reach 100 years of age, and her longevity was celebrated as a symbol of the continuity of the monarchy. Throughout her later years, she maintained her interest in horse racing, gardening, and charitable causes. She was a prominent figure at Royal Ascot and other social events, and her fashion choices continued to be widely followed. She died on March 30, 2002, at the age of 101, after a period of declining health. Her death marked the end of an era in British history, as she had been a constant presence throughout the 20th century. She was buried alongside her husband, King George VI, in St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. ### Honors and Decorations Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother received numerous honors throughout her life, reflecting her contributions to British society and international relations: **British Honors:** - Order of the Thistle (Scotland's highest order of chivalry) - Royal Victorian Chain - Victoria Medal of Honour (Royal Horticultural Society) - Decoration of the Royal Red Cross - Royal Family Order of George VI - Royal Family Order of Elizabeth II **International Honors:** - Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour (France) - War Cross (Norway) - Order of the Crown of Romania - Order of St. Sava (Serbia) - Order of Ojaswi Rajanya (Nepal) - Order of Saints Olga and Sophia (Greece) - Order of Independence (Tunisia) - Honorary doctor of the University of Auckland ### Cultural Impact and Legacy Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother's influence extended beyond her official duties. Her fashion choices, particularly her use of bold colors and distinctive hats, made her a style icon throughout her life. Her support of the arts, particularly horticulture and equestrian sports, helped promote these traditionally British pursuits. Her approach to the queen consort role—combining traditional ceremony with genuine warmth and accessibility—helped define the modern concept of royal public service. Subsequent generations of royal consorts have looked to her example as a model for balancing dignity with approachability. Her longevity and continued public presence into her final years helped bridge the gap between the wartime generation and modern Britain, providing a living connection to the country's history. Her death in 2002 marked the end of direct personal links to the World War II era within the royal family. ### Properties and Identifiers The Queen Mother owned and was associated with several properties throughout her life, including Castle of Mey in Caithness, Scotland, which she purchased in 1952 and used as a summer residence. She also maintained residences at Royal Lodge in Windsor and Clarence House in London. Her official identifiers across various systems include: - Library of Congress Control Number: n79139628 - Integrated Authority File (GND): 118816896 - IMDb ID: nm0703069 - Wikidata ID: Q106255 - ISNI: 0000000122770864 - VIAF: 18018901 Her official portrait images, coat of arms, signature, and royal cypher remain important historical records, documenting her role in the British monarchy. Her royal standard, featuring the arms of England, Scotland, Ireland, and her own personal arms, symbolized her unique position as queen consort and later as queen mother. ## References 1. 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The Peerage 23. FemBio database 24. Munk's Roll 25. Genealogics 26. Munzinger Personen 27. A historical dictionary of British women 28. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013 29. [ABC](https://www.abc.es/informacion/Aniversario_Reina/grecia.asp) 30. The Movie Database 31. LIBRIS. 2012 32. [Felicitatie van koningin-moeder Elizabeth van Groot-Brittanië aan koningin Juliana en prins Bernhard ter gelegenheid van hun 25-jarig huwelijk. 1962](https://www.koninklijkeverzamelingen.nl/collectie-online/detail/68a67d53-64ee-520b-8e99-21a9177ea021) 33. Sejm-Wielki.pl 34. KBpedia 35. CollectieGelderland 36. Catalogo of the National Library of India