Queen Elizabeth II marks 90th birthday

Today Queen Elizabeth II is marking her 90th birthday.

She was born on April 21, 1926. She was the first child of Albert, Duke of York and his wife Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. In 1936, her father became King George VI, and Princess Elizabeth became heir presumptive.

During the Second World War, she has repeatedly appeared in public with her parents, supporting people through these difficult times. In 1945, Elizabeth joined to the auxiliary territorial service.

In 1947 she married an officer in the Royal Navy Philip Mountbatten. They had four children: Prince Charles (1948), Prince Andrew (1960), Prince Edward (1964) and Princess Anne (1950).

Elizabeth became queen when King George VI died in February 1952.

During the years of her reign, which has become the longest in British history, the kingdom has gone through dramatic changes. The British Empire lost almost all its colonies, there were significant changes in democracy levels in the society. But Elizabeth II remains on the throne being respected and loved her subjects.

No special celebrations in the UK are planned on the occasion of today's date. It will be a normal working day for the Queen, in particular, she will visit the Royal Mail sorting station. Elizabeth II will spend the evening with Royal family at Windsor Castle. Family celebration will be preceded by the lighting of fires in the park and a short speech by the Queen's eldest son Prince Charles of Wales.

The main celebrations will be held in June, when British monarchs traditionally celebrate their official birthday. London will host a parade in honor of the Queen on June 11.