Queen Elizabeth II celebrates 65 years on the throne

Queen Elizabeth II made history on Monday by becoming the first British monarch to reign for 65 years, the media reported.

The Queen, who ascended the throne on February 6, 1952 following the death of her father, King George VI, would spend the occasion at her residence in Sandringham, East England, Buckingham Palace said.

Despite the Queen's public absence, the anniversary would be marked with royal gun salutes at the Tower of London and Hyde Park in London, while military parades would take place in other parts of the country, Efe news reported.

In September 2015, the Queen surpassed the 63-year reign of her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, who reigned from 1837 until her death in 1901.

As of October 13, 2016, Queen Elizabeth II became the world's longest reigning living monarch, following the death of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who reigned over Thailand for 70 years and 126 days.

On Feb 6, 1952, a 25-year-old Princess Elizabeth ascendedo the throne, though she was not crowned until June 2, 1953.

Born April 21, 1926, the Queen celebrated her 90th birthday last year.

--IANS

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