In 1936, King George V died. Later that year, King Edward VIII abdicated and so, the duties of King were turned to his brother the Duke of York. So Elizabeth, Duchess of York became Queen Consort. The Coronation took place May 12, 1937. As a Scottish Queen she became the first Lady of the Thistle.
As King and Queen, George VI and Elizabeth toured the Commonwealth and other nations, including a visit to Canada in 1939. When the war broke out, it was though that she should return there or elsewhere in North America but the Royal Family stayed at Buckingham Palace during the entire war, sharing the dangers as all other Britons. During the war, they visited badly bombarded places in Great Britain as well as hospitals and the troops. The people of Great Britain had always liked the Queen Mother and the King and Queen earned respect for staying in London during the war.
After the War, they continued to tour the Commonwealth. But the King was getting sick and in 1951 did his last public appearance. Due to his health Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh took his place on a tour of Canada and one of Australia. In February 6 of 1952, the King died. Princess Elizabeth, became Queen of the United Kingdom.
Even after the death of King George VI, the Queen Mother continued to do tours and official visits. She returned to Canada to mark the 50th year since her visit there in 1989. The Queen Mother has an important role being the patron of over 350 organisations. She is also the Commandant-in-Chief of the Women's regiments in the Army, the Air Force and the Navy and has roles in other UK and overseas regiments. She has received many honorary degrees from universities and was Chancellor of the University of London from 1956 to 1981.
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