There is probably no better-known face in the world than that of Queen Elizabeth II. Next year she will celebrate her 70th anniversary on the throne. However, for even longer at almost 74 years, a man stood by her side. He, like the Queen, became part of the eventful history of Great Britain. That part of the story sadly ended this morning with the death of Prince Philip.
PRINCE PHILIP – AN EVENTFUL LIFE
Prince Philip would have turned 100 in June. An eventful life that began on June 10, 1921, in Corfu, Greece, ends now. As the son of German nobles, it would be his fate to marry the future Queen of Great Britain in November 1947.
We could now think of his story, his merits, but also his slip-ups and mistakes and of course his special humor.
However, the main focus is life in the service of His Majesty and the United Kingdom.
Whatever you may think of the monarchy, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip stood for loyalty and a sense of duty for over seven decades. Especially in our eventful, often decadent, and short-lived times, both were a sign of persistence and a down-to-earth attitude.
They gave many people strength and support, not just in their own country. Sometimes, they made people happy all over the world when, for example, London was declared a party zone for the Queen’s birthday and decorated carriages and proud horses roamed the streets of the metropolis.
However, they sometimes caused heated discussions and public debate. For example, when things went wrong. But this is the case with all families and made them human, grounded, and more relatable to the people.
CONDOLENCES FROM BERLIN AND THE WORLD
The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Philip, always took a step behind the Queen. But now, he goes a few steps ahead of her. Therefore, today we should think of Queen Elizabeth II, who was at the side of her beloved husband to the end and now, after almost three-quarters of a century, has to live without him.
Of course, everyone from a certain age has to deal with death. However, how deep must her pain and sorrow be? The sorrow for her faithful companion, who never questioned her, but instead put his life at her service? We feel for her.
R.I.P. Prince Philip and condolences to Queen Elizabeth II.
Text: Marco Kokkot & Amy May Ellis
Photo right side: Kristina Kurapkaityte
Photo top: BiblioArchives / LibraryArchives, Princess Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Louis St. Laurent, CC BY 2.0
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