In February 1952, when the young Elizabeth returned to London after her sudden accession to the throne, Churchill was first to greet her as she stepped off the aircraft. The image was a striking one – an elderly statesman in the twilight of his career paying homage to a young sovereign just embarking on what would become the longest reign in the history of the British monarchy. He already had a lifetime of experience to share, while she had a lifetime of service still to come. Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II rank alongside the most iconic historical figures of all time. They defined the ages in which they lived, and exerted enormous influence on the lives of millions around the globe. But even more extraordinary than their individual achievements is the unique friendship that developed between them, with Churchill helping the fledgling queen to shape the start of her reign, and Elizabeth in turn helping him to retire with dignity and grace, cementing his legacy at the end of his career. Using previously unpublished material from government files and private archives, Churchill’s Queen sheds new light on this historic partnership, revealing how it grew despite challenges and setbacks – and ultimately shaped the monarchy and the nation.
