The Queen Mother was born Lady Elizabeth Angela Marguerite Bowes-Lyon on August 4, 1900. She was the ninth child of ten born to Sir Claude George Bowes-Lyon and wife Cecilia Nina. At age 22, Lady Elizabeth married the duke of York, second son of King George V, becoming the Duchess of York. Known for her charm and grace, Elizabeth was promptly nicknamed "The Smiling Duchess".

If not for the abdication of Edward VIII and his famous marriage to Wallace Simpson, the Duke and Duchess of York may have lived a very different life. Instead, their coronation took place on 12 May 1937, and they assumed the responsibilities of the throne. At this time, Elizabeth became the first commoner in three hundred years to wear the Queen Consort's crown.

Her husband had never expected to be King, and at times found the job disagreeable, so Queen Elizabeth’s unwavering support proved very important. She had already captured the hearts of the British people, and her ease in public life went a long way in making up for the King’s difficulties. During WWII, Elizabeth stayed in London with her husband during bombing raids, and this earned the monarchs the respect of the nation.

King George and Queen Elizabeth had two daughters. Princess Elizabeth, born on 21 April 1926 at the Strathmores' London home, 17 Bruton Street. Princess Margaret was born in August of 1930 at Glamis Castle.

Today, the Queen Mum is one of the favorite royals, sometimes credited with keeping the family united during her grandchildren’s scandals. Her strong relationship with the public continues: in her ninetieth year she kept over one hundred engagements in the UK, and in 1996, she carried out 58 engagements. She is said to be in excellent health for a woman of her age, having recovered from a hip operation in 1998. She enjoys fishing and horse racing, and is said to appreciate a good gin and tonic.