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Sept. 8, 2022, 8:10 p.m.

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, dies at 96

Summary

Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning monarch in British history, died Thursday at age 96, after she was placed under medical supervision for failing health. The royal family announced her death, saying the queen “died peacefully” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. For a full account of Queen Elizabeth's life, see this story .

Five Facts

  • Who was Queen Elizabeth II?
  • Where did Queen Elizabeth rule?
  • What is the Commonwealth, and what are some of the countries that are part of it?
  • When did Queen Elizabeth become queen?
  • How might Elizabeth be remembered, according to this story?

Focus Questions

Why do you think the United Kingdom still has a monarchy? What do you think it means to the people of the United Kingdom? What about countries that used to be part of the British Empire? Media literacy: What details would you like to know about Queen Elizabeth's life that were left out of this account?

For More

To learn more about Queen Elizabeth's life and legacy, read this and watch the accompanying video (or watch the video below):

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