Queen Elizabeth II was crowned on June 2, 1953, in Westminster Abbey in London. The coronation was a grand and elaborate affair, attended by dignitaries from around the world and watched by millions of people on television.
The ceremony began with the Queen's procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey, accompanied by members of the royal family and other dignitaries. The Queen wore a magnificent gown and was carried in the Gold State Coach.
Once at the abbey, the Queen was anointed with holy oil, and then crowned with the St. Edward's Crown, a heavy gold crown set with precious stones. She then received the other symbols of royalty, including the Sceptre, the Rod of Equity, and the Sword of State.
The coronation ceremony also included various religious and symbolic rituals, such as the presentation of the Bible, the recitation of the oath of allegiance, and the crowning of the Queen's consort, Prince Philip.
After the coronation, the Queen made her way back to Buckingham Palace, where she appeared on the balcony with the royal family to greet the cheering crowds. The coronation was a significant event in British history and marked the beginning of Elizabeth II's reign as Queen of the United Kingdom.
The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II had a significant impact on England and the world. Here are a few ways in which it influenced society:
Boosted National Morale: The coronation ceremony provided a much-needed boost to the morale of the British people, who were still recovering from the devastation of World War II. The elaborate ceremony and grandeur of the event brought a sense of national pride and unity to the country.
Reinforced the Institution of Monarchy: The coronation reinforced the institution of monarchy and its place in British society. The ceremony emphasized the importance of tradition, ceremony, and pageantry in the British monarchy, which continues to this day.
Showcased British Culture: The coronation was watched by millions of people around the world, and it served as a showcase for British culture, heritage, and tradition. The ceremony helped to reinforce Britain's image as a cultural leader in the world.
Symbolized a New Era: The coronation symbolized a new era in British history, marked by the post-war rebuilding and the beginning of the modern age. The young queen represented a new generation, and her reign promised to bring change and progress to Britain.
Strengthened the Commonwealth: The coronation strengthened the ties between Britain and the Commonwealth nations. The ceremony was attended by representatives from all over the world, and it emphasized the important role of the Commonwealth in world affairs.
Overall, the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II was a significant event in British history and had a profound impact on British society and culture. It helped to reinforce the institution of monarchy, symbolized a new era of progress and change, and strengthened the ties between Britain and the rest of the world.
Preparation:
The preparation for the coronation began months before the actual event. The coronation committee was set up to plan and organize the ceremony, and rehearsals took place to ensure that everything went smoothly on the day.
The Coronation Day:
On the day of the coronation, Queen Elizabeth II began her day with a traditional breakfast in her private chambers at Buckingham Palace. She then proceeded to the Royal Mews, where she was dressed in her coronation robes.
The coronation procession began from Buckingham Palace, with the Queen travelling in the Gold State Coach, escorted by the Household Cavalry. The procession made its way through the streets of London, lined with thousands of people who had come to witness the historic event.
The Coronation Ceremony:
The coronation ceremony took place in Westminster Abbey, which was decorated with thousands of flowers and lit by hundreds of candles. The ceremony was attended by over 8,000 guests, including representatives from all over the world.
The ceremony began with the Archbishop of Canterbury asking the Queen if she was willing to take the oath to uphold the laws and customs of the realm. The Queen responded, "I am willing." She then took the oath, which was followed by the singing of the hymn "Veni Creator Spiritus."
Next, the Queen was anointed with holy oil, a tradition that dates back to the Old Testament. The Archbishop of Canterbury anointed her on the hands, the breast, and the head, symbolizing the sanctification of her body and soul.
After the anointing, the Queen was crowned with the St. Edward's Crown, a 4-pound gold crown set with 444 precious stones. The crown was placed on her head by the Archbishop of Canterbury, and the congregation shouted "God save the Queen!" The Queen then received the other symbols of royalty, including the Sceptre, the Rod of Equity, and the Sword of State.
After the crowning, the Archbishop of Canterbury led the congregation in a prayer of thanksgiving. The ceremony then continued with the Queen's procession around the abbey, during which she was cheered by the crowds.
After the ceremony, the Queen returned to Buckingham Palace, where she appeared on the balcony with the royal family to greet the cheering crowds. The day ended with a grand banquet, attended by over 2,000 guests, including members of the royal family, foreign dignitaries, and representatives of the Commonwealth.
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Reference: Article by Greg Scott (Staff Historian), 2024