On Sunday, June 12, Queen Elizabeth II officially became the second longest reigning monarch in the world.
Her Majesty is ahead of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who ruled for 70 years and 126 days between 1946 and 2016.
The longest reigning monarch was Louis XIV of France, who remained on the throne for 72 years and 110 days between 1643 and 1715.
The final stage follows the celebrations of the Queen’s platinum jubilee, which took place during a four-day holiday weekend in early June.
The festivities included the Trooping the Color parade, a thanksgiving service and a jubilee competition.
The 96-year-old monarch made a surprise appearance at a platinum jubilee competition last Sunday, where she said she had no “guide to follow” on how to celebrate her seventies, and that she was “humble and deeply moved” by the jubilee.
Buckingham Palace issued a statement on behalf of the Queen to thank the nation for celebrating the event.
“When it comes to celebrating 70 years as your queen, there is no guide to follow,” it began. “It simply came to our notice then. But I was humble and deeply moved that so many people took to the streets to celebrate my platinum anniversary.
“Although I may not have attended every event in person, my heart is with all of you; and I remain committed to serving you as best I can, supported by my family.
“I am inspired by the kindness, joy and kinship that have been so evident in recent days, and I hope that this renewed sense of togetherness will be felt for many years to come.
“Thank you very much for your good wishes and for the role you all played in these happy celebrations.”
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