Queen Elizabeth II's Biggest Milestones You Probably Didn't Know
Queen Elizabeth II never thought she would be Queen - not at all.
The monarchy initially had Edward VIII as its king in 1936. But less than a year, he abdicated and jetted to France to marry the American divorcee, Wallis Simpson.
The sudden change in the monarchy gave way to his younger sibling, George VI, to become king. But his reign did not last long, as well, as he died in 1952 due to health issues - pushing then-Princess Elizabeth to take over the throne.
Despite being an instant Queen of England, Queen Elizabeth II proved what she was capable of and accomplished things beyond people's expectations.
Here's a quick recap of some of the most memorable milestones by Queen Elizabeth II.
Queen Elizabeth II's Visit to West Germany
In May 1965, Queen Elizabeth II broke her first record by making a historic visit to West Germany. She became the first British monarch in 52 years to mark the German visit. During that time, she met German prime minister Kiesinger and enjoyed a performance at the German prime minister Kiesinger.
Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee
Queen Elizabeth II scored a milestone when she had her first-ever Jubilee on Feb. 6, 1952. The Silver Jubilee was celebrated with parties and parades across the United Kingdom.
Surviving the Annus Horribilis
The year 1992 has been referred to as Annus Horribilis - or a year of unfortunate events - as the Queen was tested by continuous issues and disasters at that time.
A sudden fire broke out in Windsor Castle four days ahead of her scheduled ruby jubilee. The royal family was also bombarded with a divorce after divorce, affecting the monarchy's image. Prince Anne divorced Captain Mark Phillips before Prince Andrew announced his split from Sarah Ferguson.
During the same year, Prince Charles - now King Charles III - and Princess Diana also called it quits.
After all those things that happened, she survived.
Her Majesty Becomes Longest-Living British Monarch
Queen Elizabeth II officially scored the title of the longest-living British monarch.
She overtook Queen Victoria, who lived for 81 years, seven months and 29 days, before her death in 1901. Meanwhile, the late Queen surpassed that mark 15 years ago.
Queen as Longest-Reigning British Monarch + 1st Monarch to Reach Sapphire Jubilee
A few years after becoming the longest-living British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II officially became the longest-reigning, as well, serving 63 years and 216 days.
In 2017, she then became the first-ever British monarch to reign for 65 years, marking her Sapphire Jubilee.
