GOD SAVE THE QUEEN

The passing of Queen Elizabeth II at age 96 is a monumental event. She assumed the throne in 1952 and served longer than any other English monarch, interacting with 15 prime ministers—from Winston Churchill to Liz Truss, whom she appointed mere days before her death—and every U.S. president since Harry Truman. Her rule coincided with the end of the British Empire, but she embodied British gravitas and grace and was a perpetually steadying presence.

Elizabeth was also a prominent figure in popular culture, hosting The Beatles at Buckingham Palace in 1965 and conferring knighthoods on such major music figures as Paul McCartney, Elton John and Mick Jagger. Now, these and other creators are mourning her exit.

The Queen's homeland will be reeling from the loss for some time, even as it marks the investiture of its new king, Charles III. The world Elizabeth II helped shape will not be the same without her.