Queen Elizabeth II: Early Life

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Born on April 21, 1926, at 17 Bruton Street in the upscale neighborhood of Mayfair, Queen Elizabeth II entered the world in the residence of her maternal grandparents. The eldest daughter of the Duke and Duchess of York, she was the first-born child of the couple who would later ascend to the throne as King George VI and Queen Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. Queen Elizabeth II's early years were spent at the family's London residence, 145 Piccadilly, as well as at White Lodge, a stately home located in the picturesque Richmond Park.

145 Piccadilly

From a young age, Elizabeth received a comprehensive education in the comfort of her own home. Under the tutelage of Henry Marten, the Vice-Provost of Eton, and her governess, Marion Crawford, Elizabeth studied a diverse range of subjects. These included French, mathematics, and history, which were complemented by lessons in more artistic pursuits such as dancing, singing, and painting. As a future monarch, Elizabeth was also instructed in the finer points of royal etiquette, gaining valuable insights from her mother and her grandmother, Queen Mary.

Growing up as a member of the British royal family, Elizabeth spent a great deal of her time in the company of her parents and other royal children who were close to her age. As the years progressed, her social circle would expand to include not only her sister, Princess Margaret, but also a host of royal cousins and other aristocratic youngsters.

In 1932, when Elizabeth was six years old, her family of four relocated to the Royal Lodge in Windsor Park. To mark the occasion, the people of Wales presented her with a thoughtful gift: Y Bwthyn Bach, a small, charming cottage situated on the grounds of the Royal Lodge. Translated from Welsh, its name means "the little cottage," and it served as a delightful playhouse for Elizabeth and her sister.

The Little Cottage

However, the idyllic world of the young princess was transformed in 1936, following a series of events that would reshape the course of her life. The sudden death of her grandfather, King George V, led to the abdication of his eldest son, King Edward VIII, who chose to relinquish the throne to marry Wallis Simpson, a divorced American socialite. As a result, Elizabeth's father became the next in line for the crown, ascending as King George VI.

Princess Elizabeth was now the first in line to become Queen.

Her love for corgis began at a young age.

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