Immediately after Buckingham Palace announced the death of Queen Elizabeth II earlier today, tributes, homages, and statements from the world began pouring in about the once-in-a-lifetime figure.
One of the first, and perhaps the most poignant, came from her son, now King Charles III. “The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” he wrote. “We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Reals and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.”
The U.K’s new prime minister, Liz Truss, also offered her condolences. “Queen Elizabeth II was the rock on which modern Britain was built. Our country has grown and flourished under her reign,” she said. “It is a day of great loss, but Queen Elizabeth II leaves a great legacy.” Further messages were sent from the first ministers of Scotland and Wales.
American politicians also shared their deep admiration for the Queen, including President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. “HM Queen Elizabeth II was more than a monarch,” they wrote. “She defined an era. In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her.” The couple also reminded Americans of the poignant message she sent the country after 9/11: “Grief is the price we pay for love.”
Barack and Michelle Obama also released a lengthy—and very personal—statement. “Michelle and I were lucky enough to come to know her Majesty, and she meant a great deal to us. Back when we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us to the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity,” they said. “Time and again, we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease, and how she brought her considerable humor and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.” They concluded that they were “awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service.”
Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and Indian president Droupadi Murmu also shared messages of mourning.
Prominent figures from outside of the world of politics also offered their condolences. American businessmen Bill Gates and Tim Cook posted reflective tweets on Twitter, with the latter writing “there is nothing more noble than to devote your life to the service of others.” Rock band The Rolling Stones, meanwhile, shared that she “was a constant presence in their lives as in countless others.”
The wide-ranging expressions of sympathy—from prominent leaders in many different cultural fields—show exactly the admiration that Queen Elizabeth inspired not only in her countrymen, but the citizens of the world.
BY ELISE TAYLOR
Photo: Getty Images