Franklin Dean
Queen Elizabeth II, one of the most iconic monarchs in British history, married Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey. At the time of their wedding, Queen Elizabeth was just 21 years old, having been born on April 21, 1926. Their marriage, which lasted over seven decades until Prince Philip's passing in 2021, became a symbol of enduring love and dedication, shaping the public’s perception of the royal family and her reign as a steadfast leader.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Age of Queen Elizabeth II at marriage | 21 years old |
| Marriage date | November 20, 1947 |
| Spouse | Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark (later Duke of Edinburgh) |
| Location of marriage | Westminster Abbey, London |
| Age of Prince Philip at marriage | 26 years old |
| Number of children | 4 (Charles, Anne, Andrew, Edward) |
| Duration of marriage | 73 years (until Prince Philip's death on April 9, 2021) |
| Title at marriage | Princess Elizabeth |
| Reign as Queen | Became Queen on February 6, 1952 (after marriage) |
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What You'll Learn
- Early Romance: Elizabeth met Prince Philip in 1939, aged 13, at the Royal Naval College
- Engagement Announcement: Their engagement was officially announced in July 1947; she was 21 years old
- Wedding Date: Queen Elizabeth married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey
- Age at Marriage: She was 21 years and 8 months old when she wed Philip
- Post-Wedding Life: The couple had four children and were married for 73 years until Philip’s death
Early Romance: Elizabeth met Prince Philip in 1939, aged 13, at the Royal Naval College
The story of Queen Elizabeth II's early romance with Prince Philip is a captivating chapter in royal history, beginning when she was just a teenager. In 1939, a 13-year-old Princess Elizabeth visited the Royal Naval College in Dartmouth, an event that would forever change her life. This trip marked the first encounter between Elizabeth and her future husband, Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, who was an 18-year-old cadet at the college. Their meeting was not merely a chance occurrence but was orchestrated by Philip's uncle, Lord Louis Mountbatten, who saw an opportunity to introduce his nephew to the young princess.
During this visit, Elizabeth and Philip were both present at a ceremony where the princess was to lay a wreath at the college's war memorial. Philip was assigned to escort Elizabeth, and it was during this task that they began to interact. Despite the formal setting, their connection was immediate and sparked an interest that would blossom over the following years. The young princess was reportedly taken by Philip's charm, good looks, and his ability to make her laugh, which was a welcome relief from the formalities of royal life.
Their initial meeting was followed by a series of letters exchanged between the two, a correspondence that continued throughout World War II. Philip, being a few years older, was already serving in the Royal Navy, while Elizabeth was still at home, preparing for her future role as queen. These letters played a significant role in fostering their relationship, allowing them to get to know each other despite the physical distance and the challenges of the war. The content of their letters remains private, but it is believed that they shared personal thoughts, dreams, and a growing affection for each other.
As Elizabeth matured, her feelings for Philip deepened, and their relationship became more serious. The young princess was drawn to Philip's strong character, intelligence, and his modern outlook, which was quite progressive for the time. Philip, in turn, was captivated by Elizabeth's grace, determination, and her sense of duty. Their romance, which began with a simple meeting at the Royal Naval College, was a bright spot during the dark years of the war, offering a glimpse of hope and happiness for the young princess.
This early romance laid the foundation for one of the most enduring royal marriages in history. Despite their young age when they first met, Elizabeth and Philip's connection was strong enough to withstand the test of time and the pressures of royal life. Their wedding, which took place in 1947 when Elizabeth was 21, was a grand affair, capturing the world's attention and marking the beginning of a new era for the British monarchy. The story of their first meeting at the Royal Naval College is a testament to the power of young love and its ability to flourish into a lifelong partnership.
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Engagement Announcement: Their engagement was officially announced in July 1947; she was 21 years old
The engagement announcement of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten marked a significant moment in royal history, capturing the attention of the British public and the world. Their engagement was officially announced in July 1947, when Princess Elizabeth was just 21 years old. This milestone came after years of a quietly blossoming romance, which had begun when she was a teenager. The announcement was met with widespread celebration, as the nation eagerly anticipated the union of their future queen and her chosen partner. At 21, Elizabeth was already a symbol of hope and resilience, having served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during World War II, and her engagement further solidified her role as a beloved figure.
The timing of the announcement was carefully chosen, reflecting both personal and political considerations. Elizabeth had known Philip since she was 13, but their relationship deepened during his visits to the UK in the 1940s. By 1947, the war was over, and the country was beginning to rebuild. The engagement announcement provided a moment of joy and optimism during a period of austerity. At 21 years old, Elizabeth was legally an adult and had already demonstrated her maturity and commitment to duty, making her ready for this new chapter. The royal family ensured the news was shared with dignity and excitement, emphasizing the couple’s shared values and vision for the future.
The official announcement was made through traditional royal channels, including a statement from Buckingham Palace and coverage in national newspapers. Photographs of the couple, radiant and smiling, accompanied the news, showcasing their happiness. Elizabeth’s engagement ring, featuring diamonds from a tiara belonging to Philip’s mother, added a personal touch to the occasion. At 21, she embodied both youthful vibrancy and regal poise, qualities that endeared her to the public. The announcement also highlighted Philip’s background and his decision to become a naturalized British subject, renouncing his Greek and Danish titles to marry Elizabeth.
Public reaction to the engagement was overwhelmingly positive, with many seeing it as a sign of brighter days ahead. At 21 years old, Elizabeth was already a role model for young women, and her choice of partner was viewed as a testament to her character and judgment. The couple’s wedding, which took place later that year in November 1947, would become a historic event, but the engagement announcement laid the foundation for the celebration. It was a moment that not only celebrated their love but also reinforced the monarchy’s connection to the people, with Elizabeth’s age symbolizing the beginning of a new era.
In retrospect, the engagement announcement in July 1947, when Elizabeth was 21 years old, was more than just a personal milestone—it was a cultural and historical event. It marked the start of a partnership that would shape the British monarchy for decades to come. Elizabeth’s youth and Philip’s dedication to supporting her role as queen-in-waiting set the tone for their future reign. This announcement remains a cherished memory, reminding us of the enduring legacy of Queen Elizabeth II and her remarkable life, which began this new chapter at the age of 21.
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Wedding Date: Queen Elizabeth married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey
Queen Elizabeth II, then known as Princess Elizabeth, married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey. This historic event took place just two years after the end of World War II, during which Prince Philip had served in the British Royal Navy. The wedding was a significant moment for the British monarchy and the nation, symbolizing hope and renewal in the post-war era. At the time of her marriage, Princess Elizabeth was 21 years old, having been born on April 21, 1926. Her age at the time of her wedding is a key detail often highlighted when discussing her life and reign.
The choice of November 20, 1947, as the wedding date was deliberate, as it allowed sufficient time for post-war recovery efforts to take shape while still maintaining the grandeur expected of a royal wedding. Despite the economic constraints of the time, the event was a lavish affair, attended by dignitaries, royal family members, and broadcast to millions around the world. Princess Elizabeth's decision to marry at 21 was in line with societal norms of the era, where young adulthood and marriage often went hand in hand, especially within royal circles.
Westminster Abbey, the venue for the wedding, held deep historical significance as the site of numerous royal coronations and weddings. The abbey's grandeur and spiritual importance made it the perfect setting for the union of Princess Elizabeth and Prince Philip. On that November 20, 1947, the 21-year-old princess walked down the aisle in a stunning gown designed by Norman Hartnell, featuring intricate embroidery and symbolism that reflected her role as a future monarch.
The wedding of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, held on November 20, 1947, marked the beginning of a partnership that would last over seven decades. At just 21 years old, Princess Elizabeth embarked on a lifelong commitment not only to her husband but also to her duties as a royal. This date remains a pivotal moment in her personal life and in the history of the British monarchy, often referenced when discussing her early years as a public figure.
Understanding that Queen Elizabeth was 21 years old when she married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey provides insight into the timing of her life’s milestones. Her youth at the time of her wedding contrasts with the longevity of her reign, which began just five years later in 1952. This detail underscores the remarkable journey of a young woman who became one of the most enduring and respected monarchs in history, all starting with her wedding at the age of 21 on that significant date in 1947.
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Age at Marriage: She was 21 years and 8 months old when she wed Philip
Queen Elizabeth II, one of the most iconic monarchs in history, married Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark at a relatively young age. Age at Marriage: She was 21 years and 8 months old when she wed Philip, a fact that highlights the traditions and norms of royal marriages during the mid-20th century. Their wedding took place on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey, a venue steeped in royal history. At the time, Elizabeth was already a prominent figure as the heir presumptive to the British throne, and her marriage was a significant event not only for the royal family but also for the nation still recovering from World War II.
The age of 21 years and 8 months was not unusual for royal marriages of that era, as it aligned with societal expectations for women of her status. Elizabeth and Philip’s engagement had been announced earlier that year, in July 1947, when she was just 21. Their relationship had blossomed during her teenage years, with Philip first catching her attention when she was only 13. By the time they married, Elizabeth had matured into a poised young woman ready to take on the responsibilities of both marriage and her future role as queen.
The timing of their marriage was also influenced by the post-war context. Britain was rebuilding, and the royal wedding provided a moment of celebration and hope for the public. Age at Marriage: She was 21 years and 8 months old when she wed Philip, a detail that underscores the careful planning and tradition surrounding royal unions. Despite her youth, Elizabeth’s commitment to duty was evident, as she balanced her personal life with her royal obligations seamlessly.
It’s worth noting that while 21 years and 8 months may seem young by today’s standards, it was a common age for marriage among royals and the upper class in the 1940s. Elizabeth’s mother, Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, had married King George VI at a similar age. This tradition reflected the era’s expectations for women, particularly those in line for the throne, to marry and start a family while still in their early twenties.
The legacy of their marriage is profound, as it lasted over seven decades until Prince Philip’s passing in 2021. Age at Marriage: She was 21 years and 8 months old when she wed Philip, a milestone that marked the beginning of a partnership that would shape her reign and personal life. Their union produced four children, including King Charles III, and became a symbol of enduring love and commitment. Elizabeth’s age at marriage remains a fascinating detail in the story of her life, reflecting both personal choice and royal tradition.
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Post-Wedding Life: The couple had four children and were married for 73 years until Philip’s death
Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s post-wedding life was marked by a deep partnership, both in their personal and public roles. After their marriage on November 20, 1947, the couple quickly started a family, welcoming their first child, Prince Charles, in 1948. This was followed by the birth of Princess Anne in 1950, Prince Andrew in 1960, and Prince Edward in 1964. Balancing their roles as parents with royal duties, Elizabeth and Philip created a stable and loving environment for their children, despite the demands of their positions. Philip, in particular, took an active role in their upbringing, often stepping in when Elizabeth’s responsibilities as a monarch required her attention elsewhere.
Elizabeth’s ascension to the throne in 1952 significantly shaped their post-wedding life. Philip became her steadfast supporter, accompanying her on state visits and public engagements. While he was not allowed to pursue his own career ambitions, he channeled his energy into patronages, particularly those focused on environmental conservation, science, and education. His role as the Queen’s consort was one of quiet strength, providing her with emotional and practical support throughout her reign. Their marriage became a symbol of enduring commitment, with Philip often referring to himself as the Queen’s "liege man."
Despite the pressures of royal life, the couple maintained a strong bond, celebrating milestones such as their silver, golden, and diamond wedding anniversaries. Their marriage was not without challenges, but their shared sense of duty and mutual respect helped them navigate difficulties. Philip’s retirement from public duties in 2017 allowed them to spend more time together at Windsor Castle and Sandringham, enjoying a quieter life in their later years. Their children and grandchildren often spoke of the warmth and humor that defined their relationship, even after decades together.
The couple’s 73-year marriage came to an end with Prince Philip’s death on April 9, 2021, at the age of 99. His passing marked the end of the longest-serving consort in British history and left a profound impact on Queen Elizabeth II. The outpouring of tributes highlighted not only Philip’s contributions to public life but also the strength of his partnership with the Queen. Their marriage, spanning over seven decades, remains a testament to their unwavering dedication to each other and to the Crown.
In reflecting on their post-wedding life, it is clear that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s relationship was a cornerstone of her reign. Their ability to raise a family, fulfill royal obligations, and maintain a strong personal bond is a remarkable achievement. Their story serves as an instructive example of how partnership, respect, and shared purpose can sustain a marriage through the most demanding circumstances. As the Queen continued her reign following Philip’s death, his legacy as her constant companion and supporter remained an integral part of her life and reign.
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Frequently asked questions
Queen Elizabeth II was 21 years old when she married Prince Philip on November 20, 1947.
Prince Philip was 26 years old when he married Queen Elizabeth II in 1947.
Yes, marrying in her early 20s was typical for the mid-20th century, especially for women of her generation and social standing.
