Queen Elizabeth Is 70 years On The Throne

Queen Elizabeth II is marking 70 years on the British throne.

On this day February 6, 1952, the beautiful, 25-year-old Elizabeth was first crowned, Queen of England, following the death of her father.

Over the years, her reign has witnessed the inauguration of and tenure end of World leaders and historic events around the world. 

Today, Sunday, she is expected to mark her seven decades on the British throne, as she does every year, in quiet reflection.

She didn't plan on putting on the crown so soon. Her father, King George VI, had been gravely ill when he waved her and her husband, Philip, off on a royal tour the year before.

Her coronation became the first major international event broadcast live on TV – a burst of pageantry in post-war Britain that thrust the young queen onto a throne of privilege, stardom and responsibility.  

Over the past seven decades, Queen Elizabeth – now 95 – has overseen the transition from Britain's imperial past to a more modern monarchy.

The Queen has ruled for longer than any other Monarch in British history, becoming a much loved and respected figure across the globe. Known for her sense of duty and her devotion to a life of service, she has been an important figurehead for the UK and the Commonwealth during times of enormous social change.

Credit: CBS News. Royal.uk