Yesterday, September 8th, marked the first year since the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The longest-serving sovereign in the history of England – 70 years on the throne – and a global icon. A symbol of constancy, discretion and dedication, she is still the target of affection and curiosity today, and her legacy is still discussed.

Elizabeth was crowned at just 25 years old, when she was already a mother of two and had at least 10 more years as a military wife before being thrust into the position of leading the United Kingdom. Being young and shy, she immediately captured attention around the planet and symbolized different things over the years. From youth to tradition, there were seven decades marked by cultural, economic, social, technological and sociopolitical transformation. Her figure came to be identified as constancy, as a pop reference and even as fun, with memes mocking her longevity. Her stoicism is part of her legacy, as she was a female leader in a man’s world, and maintained a sense of pride for the Monarchy in Great Britain, even in times when it seems strange to have Kings and Queens.

Historians credit her with “reinventing the role of the sovereign”, with weekly audiences with prime ministers, becoming considered a source of wisdom and guardian of many secrets. Even though he was a political figure, he was apolitical and above the party. All of Elizabeth II’s qualities, however, are seen as defects in her direct heirs, today King Charles II and in the future her grandson, Prince William.

Her almost religious dedication to her role as Queen – as shown in The Crown – brought her into conflict with people she loved and who suffered because of the Queen’s inflexibility about the rules she followed. Her motto of “never complain, never explain” is abhorred by millennial culture and places Charles and William in complex positions. The ‘current drama’ between Harry and William is a replay of previous problems experienced by Margaret, Diana and even King George VI. As Queen, Elizabeth II chose to follow Duty, indirectly causing pain to these people.

In just one year, therefore, Elizabeth II is still an object of affection and respect, but her shadow is still unyielding for those who will follow her. Something to monitor and evaluate. See how The Crown will mark its farewell too.

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