On November 20, 1947, the world witnessed a royal event that captivated millions. Princess Elizabeth, the future Queen of England, married Philip Mountbatten, a former prince of Greece and Denmark, in a grand ceremony at Westminster Abbey.
The wedding was a lavish affair, with over 2,000 guests in attendance. It was the first royal wedding to be televised, and the public eagerly awaited every detail of the event. Princess Elizabeth looked breathtaking in a white silk gown designed by Norman Hartnell, while Philip was resplendent in his naval uniform.
The wedding was a joyous occasion, but it also marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Elizabeth and Philip Wedding: 10 Important Points
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was a significant event in British history. Here are 10 important points about the wedding:
- Date: November 20, 1947
- Location: Westminster Abbey
- Bride: Princess Elizabeth
- Groom: Philip Mountbatten
- Guests: Over 2,000
- Dress: Designed by Norman Hartnell
- Televised: First royal wedding to be televised
- Significance: Marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership
- Legacy: A defining moment in British history
- Symbolism: Represented the post-war optimism and hope
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a joyous occasion that captured the imagination of the world. It was a symbol of hope and renewal in the aftermath of World War II, and it marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Date: November 20, 1947
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten took place on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey in London. The date was chosen carefully, as it was the day before the Queen's 21st birthday. This meant that she would be legally an adult and able to marry without the consent of her father, King George VI.
The date also had symbolic significance. November 20th is the anniversary of the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert. By choosing to marry on this date, Elizabeth and Philip were paying homage to the long and happy marriage of their great-great-grandparents.
The wedding was a grand affair, with over 2,000 guests in attendance. It was the first royal wedding to be televised, and the public eagerly awaited every detail of the event. Princess Elizabeth looked breathtaking in a white silk gown designed by Norman Hartnell, while Philip was resplendent in his naval uniform.
The ceremony was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher. Elizabeth and Philip exchanged vows, and the Archbishop pronounced them man and wife. The couple then processed out of the Abbey, waving to the cheering crowds.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a joyous occasion, but it also marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Location: Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey has been the traditional setting for royal weddings in England for centuries. It is a large, Gothic church that is located in the heart of London. The Abbey has a long and rich history, and it has witnessed many important events in British history.
The first royal wedding to be held at Westminster Abbey was the marriage of King Henry III to Eleanor of Provence in 1236. Since then, many other kings and queens have been married at the Abbey, including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother, in 1923.
Westminster Abbey is a particularly fitting location for a royal wedding because it is a symbol of the nation's history and tradition. It is also a place of great beauty and grandeur, which makes it a perfect setting for a celebration.
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was held in Westminster Abbey on November 20, 1947. The Abbey was decorated with flowers and greenery, and the ceremony was attended by over 2,000 guests.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a joyous occasion, and it marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Bride: Princess Elizabeth
Princess Elizabeth was born on April 21, 1926, in London, England. She was the eldest daughter of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and she was heir presumptive to the British throne from birth.
- Full name: Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor
Princess Elizabeth was given the full name Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor at her baptism. Elizabeth was chosen after her mother, Alexandra after her paternal great-grandmother, and Mary after her paternal grandmother.
Heir to the throne:Princess Elizabeth became heir to the throne upon the death of her uncle, King Edward VIII, in 1936. She was only 10 years old at the time.
Marriage to Philip Mountbatten:Princess Elizabeth married Philip Mountbatten, a former prince of Greece and Denmark, on November 20, 1947. The couple had met in 1939, and they fell in love quickly.
Queen Elizabeth II:Princess Elizabeth became Queen Elizabeth II upon the death of her father, King George VI, in 1952. She was crowned in Westminster Abbey on June 2, 1953.
Queen Elizabeth II is the longest-reigning monarch in British history. She has witnessed many significant events during her reign, including the end of the British Empire, the Cold War, and the rise of the internet.
Groom: Philip Mountbatten
Philip Mountbatten was born on June 10, 1921, on the Greek island of Corfu. He was the fifth and youngest child of Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark and Princess Alice of Battenberg. Philip's family was forced to flee Greece when he was a baby, and they eventually settled in England.
Philip joined the Royal Navy in 1939, and he served with distinction during World War II. He was mentioned in dispatches for his bravery, and he rose to the rank of lieutenant commander.
Philip met Princess Elizabeth in 1939, and they fell in love quickly. However, their engagement was not announced until 1947, after Philip had renounced his Greek and Danish titles and converted to Anglicanism.
Philip and Elizabeth were married on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey. The couple had four children: Prince Charles, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward.
Philip was a devoted husband and father, and he was a strong supporter of the Queen. He accompanied her on many official tours, and he represented her at many events.
Guests: Over 2,000
Over 2,000 guests were invited to the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten. The guest list included royalty from all over the world, as well as politicians, diplomats, and other dignitaries.
The guests began arriving at Westminster Abbey on the morning of November 20, 1947. They were greeted by a large crowd of well-wishers, and they were escorted to their seats in the Abbey.
The ceremony began at 11:00 AM, and it was conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Geoffrey Fisher. Elizabeth and Philip exchanged vows, and the Archbishop pronounced them man and wife.
After the ceremony, the guests processed out of the Abbey and into the streets of London. They waved to the cheering crowds, and they then made their way to Buckingham Palace for the wedding reception.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a grand affair, and it was attended by some of the most important people in the world. The guests witnessed a historic event, and they helped to celebrate the beginning of a new chapter in British history.
Dress: Designed by Norman Hartnell
Princess Elizabeth's wedding dress was designed by Norman Hartnell, one of the most famous and sought-after designers of his time. Hartnell was known for his elegant and sophisticated designs, and he had dressed many members of the royal family, including the Queen Mother.
Elizabeth's dress was made of white silk satin, and it featured a full skirt and a fitted bodice. The dress was embroidered with crystals and pearls, and it had a long train. Elizabeth also wore a veil made of tulle, and she carried a bouquet of white roses.
Hartnell's design was a perfect match for Elizabeth's personality and style. The dress was elegant and timeless, and it reflected the grandeur of the occasion.
Elizabeth's wedding dress is considered to be one of the most iconic wedding dresses of all time. It has been copied and imitated countless times, and it remains a popular choice for brides today.
Norman Hartnell was a British fashion designer who dressed many members of the royal family, including Queen Elizabeth II and her mother, Queen Elizabeth. He was known for his elegant and sophisticated designs, and his work is considered to be some of the most iconic in fashion history.
Televised: First royal wedding to be televised
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was the first royal wedding to be televised. The BBC was granted exclusive rights to broadcast the event, and an estimated 200 million people around the world watched the ceremony.
The decision to televise the wedding was a controversial one at the time. Some people felt that it was inappropriate to broadcast such a private event to the public. However, others argued that it was a way to share the joy of the occasion with people who would not otherwise be able to attend.
The television coverage of the wedding was a major event in broadcasting history. It was the first time that such a large-scale event had been televised live, and it set a precedent for future royal weddings and other major events.
The television coverage of Elizabeth and Philip's wedding was also a major cultural moment. It gave people around the world a glimpse into the lives of the royal family, and it helped to create a sense of unity and shared experience.
The decision to televise the wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was a significant one. It was a major event in broadcasting history, and it helped to create a sense of unity and shared experience around the world.
Significance: Marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was a significant event in British history. It marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of the monarchy and the nation.
Elizabeth and Philip were married for over 73 years, and their marriage was a model of stability and devotion. They were a source of strength and support for each other, and they worked together to fulfill their duties as Queen and Prince Consort.
Elizabeth and Philip's marriage was also a source of inspiration for the people of Britain. They showed the world that it was possible to have a happy and successful marriage, even in the face of challenges.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a turning point in British history. It marked the beginning of a new era, and it helped to create a sense of unity and optimism in the country.
Elizabeth and Philip's marriage was a remarkable achievement. It was a partnership that was built on love, respect, and mutual support. They were a role model for couples around the world, and they will be remembered as one of the most iconic royal couples in history.
Legacy: A defining moment in British history
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a defining moment in British history for many reasons:
- It marked the beginning of a new era in the British monarchy.
Elizabeth's accession to the throne in 1952 marked the end of the long reign of her father, King George VI, and the beginning of a new era in the British monarchy. Elizabeth was a young and modern queen, and her marriage to Philip brought a new sense of vitality and glamour to the monarchy.
- It helped to unite the country after the Second World War.
Britain was still recovering from the effects of the Second World War when Elizabeth and Philip were married. The wedding was a joyous occasion that helped to bring the country together and to look to the future with optimism.
- It was a global event that was watched by millions of people around the world.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was the first royal wedding to be televised, and it was watched by an estimated 200 million people around the world. The wedding was a major media event, and it helped to raise the profile of the British monarchy on the world stage.
- It is still remembered and celebrated today.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip is still remembered and celebrated today. It is a reminder of a time of great hope and optimism in British history, and it is a testament to the enduring popularity of the British monarchy.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a truly defining moment in British history. It marked the beginning of a new era in the monarchy, helped to unite the country after the Second World War, and was a global event that was watched by millions of people around the world. The wedding is still remembered and celebrated today, and it is a testament to the enduring popularity of the British monarchy.
Symbolism: Represented the post-war optimism and hope
The wedding of Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten was a symbol of post-war optimism and hope. Britain had emerged from the Second World War victorious, but the country was still struggling to recover from the devastation of the war.
Elizabeth and Philip's wedding was a reminder that there was still much to be hopeful for. Elizabeth was a young and beautiful princess, and Philip was a handsome and dashing naval officer. Their wedding was a celebration of life and love, and it gave the British people a sense that the future was bright.
The wedding was also a symbol of the changing times. Elizabeth was the first British monarch to be born in the 20th century, and her marriage to Philip was a sign that the monarchy was adapting to the modern world.
Elizabeth and Philip's wedding was a joyous occasion that brought the British people together. It was a symbol of post-war optimism and hope, and it gave the nation a sense that the future was bright.
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a turning point in British history. It marked the beginning of a new era, and it helped to create a sense of unity and optimism in the country.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the wedding of Elizabeth and Philip:
Question 1: When did the wedding take place?
Answer: November 20, 1947
Question 2: Where did the wedding take place?
Answer: Westminster Abbey, London
Question 3: Who were the bride and groom?
Answer: Princess Elizabeth and Philip Mountbatten
Question 4: How many guests attended the wedding?
Answer: Over 2,000
Question 5: Who designed the bride's dress?
Answer: Norman Hartnell
Question 6: Was the wedding televised?
Answer: Yes, it was the first royal wedding to be televised
Question 7: What was the significance of the wedding?
Answer: It marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history
Question 8: How long were Elizabeth and Philip married?
Answer: Over 73 years
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a historic event that captured the imagination of the world. It was a symbol of hope and renewal in the aftermath of World War II, and it marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Here are some additional details about the wedding that you may find interesting:
Tips
Here are a few tips for planning your own royal wedding:
Tip 1: Choose a meaningful date and location. The date and location of your wedding should be special to you and your partner. Consider getting married on a date that has significance to your relationship, such as your anniversary or the date you first met.
Tip 2: Create a guest list that includes the people you love most. Your wedding day is a celebration of your love, so make sure to invite the people who mean the most to you. Keep in mind that the size of your guest list will affect your budget and the logistics of your wedding.
Tip 3: Hire a professional wedding planner to help you with the details. A wedding planner can help you with everything from choosing a venue to planning the menu. They can also help you to stay on budget and to ensure that your wedding day runs smoothly.
Tip 4: Relax and enjoy your special day! Your wedding day should be a day of joy and celebration. Don't stress out about the details, and just focus on enjoying your time with your partner and your loved ones.
Planning a royal wedding can be a lot of work, but it's also a lot of fun. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your wedding day is everything you've ever dreamed of.
Congratulations on your engagement! We hope that these tips have been helpful in planning your royal wedding.
Conclusion
The wedding of Elizabeth and Philip was a historic event that captured the imagination of the world. It was a symbol of hope and renewal in the aftermath of World War II, and it marked the beginning of a long and enduring partnership that would shape the course of British history.
Elizabeth and Philip were married for over 73 years, and their marriage was a model of stability and devotion. They were a source of strength and support for each other, and they worked together to fulfill their duties as Queen and Prince Consort.
Elizabeth and Philip's wedding was a reminder that even in the most difficult of times, there is always hope for the future. Their marriage was a testament to the power of love and commitment, and it inspired people all over the world.
Elizabeth and Philip's legacy will live on for generations to come. They were a truly remarkable couple, and their wedding was a historic event that will never be forgotten.