Queen Elizabeth II passed away peacefully on September 8, 2022, after a remarkable 70-year reign as the British monarch. Despite living a long life of 96 years, she faced numerous threats, with three documented assassination attempts that reveal the darker side of her public life. These incidents serve as a reminder of the challenges she faced amidst her responsibilities and the devotion she inspired in many around the world.
Throughout her life, Queen Elizabeth II was adored by millions, yet she also had her share of enemies. Reports indicate that she survived multiple attempts on her life before her peaceful passing at Balmoral Castle in Scotland. This article delves into three notable instances where the late queen narrowly escaped danger, showcasing her resilience and the historical context surrounding these events.
As we remember her legacy, it is essential to reflect on these historical moments that reveal not just the fragility of life but also the strength of a monarch who continued to serve her nation with grace. Let us explore the details of these documented assassination attempts that shaped the narrative of her reign.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Queen Elizabeth II
- Bizarre Train Track Incident In Australia In 1970
- Six Shots Fired At The Queen In London
- New Zealand Attempt On The Queen's Life
- Significant Changes on the Day of the Queen's Funeral
Biography of Queen Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II was born on April 21, 1926, in London, England. She became the queen in 1952, following the death of her father, King George VI. Her reign was marked by significant historical events, including the decolonization of Africa and the Cold War.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor |
| Born | April 21, 1926 |
| Reign Start | February 6, 1952 |
| Passed Away | September 8, 2022 |
| Age at Death | 96 |
Bizarre Train Track Incident In Australia In 1970
One of the first documented assassination attempts on Queen Elizabeth II occurred during her 1970 tour of Australia. On April 29, while traveling by train from Sydney to Orange, a group of would-be assassins laid a large log on the tracks.
Although a smaller train had previously scouted the tracks for safety, the Queen's train struck the log. Fortunately, the train was traveling slowly, and no significant damage occurred. Investigations revealed a plot to derail the train, but no arrests were made. It wasn't until 2009 that details of this incident were publicly discussed by Detective Superintendent Cliff McHardy, who claimed it had been covered up to avoid embarrassment for the government.
Six Shots Fired At The Queen In London
Another notable assassination attempt took place during the Trooping the Colour ceremony in London in 1981. A 17-year-old boy named Marcus Sarjeant fired six blanks from a starting pistol while the Queen was on horseback.
This shocking incident was described as "the most bizarre attempt to become famous." Although the Queen's horse was startled, she managed to regain control and continue her ride. Sarjeant was arrested and later revealed that his actions were inspired by the assassination of John Lennon. He received a five-year prison sentence for his actions.
New Zealand Attempt On The Queen's Life
A few months after the London incident, Queen Elizabeth II faced another assassination attempt in New Zealand in 1981. While visiting a museum in Dunedin, a 17-year-old named Christopher John Lewis fired a shot from a window as she exited her vehicle.
Luckily, he missed, but witnesses reported hearing a loud crack. Lewis was arrested eight days later and served three years in a psychiatric facility as part of his sentence. These attempts highlight the unique challenges faced by the monarch throughout her reign.
Significant Changes on the Day of the Queen's Funeral
The passing of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, marked the end of an era in the United Kingdom. Her funeral brought about various changes in state protocols and traditions.
The Queen's body was laid to rest at Westminster Abbey on September 19, 2022. This event not only signified a moment of mourning but also heralded a new chapter in British history as the nation navigated life without its long-serving monarch.
