While overseeing the transitions in Britain’s place within the world and its relationship with its former colonies, Queen Elizabeth also reigned as her own family’s relationships and actions fell under scrutiny. In the 1990s, Elizabeth dealt with scandals and tragedies such as the extramarital affairs and divorce of her son Prince Charles — who has now become king — and his wife Diana, who later died in an accident brought about by media harassment.
Over the years, Elizabeth also attempted — sometimes unsuccessfully — to downplay sexual abuse allegations against her son Prince Andrew and accusations of racism against her husband, Prince Philip, who died last year. And Elizabeth has been criticized for contributing to an atmosphere of racism and hostility against her grandson Prince Harry’s wife, actress Meghan Markle, leading to Harry and Meghan exiting the U.K. and drawing back from the royal family. These various scandals tarnished but did not destroy the legacy of Queen Elizabeth and the royal family. The Queen marked her 70th anniversary as monarch — her Platinum Jubilee — in an elaborate celebration earlier this summer.
That long reign and legacy will no doubt continue to be debated for years to come, as Queen Elizabeth’s death marks the end of an era and portends momentous change for the monarchy and the U.K.