On Wednesday, September 9, the 89-year-old Queen Elizabeth II became the longest-reigning monarch that the United Kingdom has ever had. And, true to her usual form, she accepted the accomplishment humbly and without any grandeur.
The country celebrated by pausing their day for half an hour, and a caravan of boats were sent through the Thames river in honor of her dedicated service. She and Prince Phillip were in Scotland, for the opening of a new rail system. They rode the rail and then Queen Elizabeth gave a speech at the Scottish Borders.
In her speech, she said “Inevitably, a long life can pass many milestones – my own is no exception – but I thank you all and the many others at home and overseas for your touching messages of great kindness.”
This record is one that Queen Elizabeth is taking from her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, who served as queen for 63 years and 216 days. The exact moment when she took the title is unknown, as it is unknown at what exact time her father passed away, and passed the crown on to her.