Queen Elizabeth II dies: Things to know about the world’s longest-reigning monarch

Queen Elizabeth II died on September 9 at her home in Scotland after seven decades on the throne. She was 96. Here we list some interesting facts about Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

Queen Elizabeth II dies: Things to know about the world’s longest-reigning monarch

Elizabeth, who marked 70 years on the throne this year, is the oldest and longest-reigning monarch in British history. Credit: AFP Photo

In September 2015, she surpassed her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria, who reigned for 63 years and seven months. Credit: AFP Photo

In 2016, Elizabeth also became the longest-reigning monarch in the world with the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. Credit: AFP Photo

In 2022, she became the second-longest-reigning monarch in world history, behind 17th century French King Louis XIV, who took the throne at age 4. Credit: AFP Photo

Like many royals of her time and before, Elizabeth never went to a public school and was never exposed to other students. Instead, she was educated at home with Margaret, her younger sister. Credit: AFP Photo

Elizabeth's schooling also included learning to ride, swim, dance and study of fine art and music. Credit: AFP Photo

During World War II, young Princess Elizabeth briefly became known as 'No. 230873', Second Subaltern Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor of the Auxiliary Transport Service No. 1. Credit: AFP Photo

After months of campaigning for her parent's permission to do something for the war effort, the heir to the throne learned how to drive and service ambulances and trucks. Credit: AFP Photo

Elizabeth often portrayed a serious demeanor, and many have noted her “poker face”, but those who knew her described her as having a mischievous sense of humour and a talent for mimicry in private company. Credit: AFP Photo

Elizabeth was a great mimic and she showed her mischievous side during the Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022 when she starred in a comic video alongside an animated Paddington Bear and spoke of hiding marmalade sandwiches in her purse. Credit: Instagram/theroyalfamily

Elizabeth may have been the queen, but she paid taxes too — at least since 1992. Credit: Reuters Photo

The queen was christened Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor of York, in honour of her mother, paternal grandmother and paternal great-grandmother. But as a child, she was endearingly known as young Lilibet by her family — said to be because she couldn't pronounce “Elizabeth” properly. Credit: AFP Photo

Elizabeth was born on April 21, 1926, but it was sometimes confusing for the public to know when to celebrate. There was no universally fixed day for her “official birthday” — it was either the first, second or third Saturday in June, and was decided by the government. Only the queen and those closest to her celebrated her actual birthday in private gatherings. Credit: AFP Photo

It's widely known that Elizabeth loved corgis — Princess Diana reportedly called the dogs the queen's “moving carpet” because they accompanied her everywhere. Credit: AFP Photo

As queen, she also technically owned the thousands of mute swans in open British waters and had the right to claim all sturgeons, porpoises, whales and dolphins, according to a statute from 1324. Credit: AFP Photo