What you need to know: Queen Elizabeth II, the longest reigning British monarch, died peacefully on Thursday, Sept. 8 at the age of 96. She had been under medical supervision since Thursday morning following the recommendation of her doctor. The queen died at Balmoral Castle, her home in the Scottish Highlands. At the time of her death, she was surrounded by some of her closest family members, including her son, the now King Charles III, his wife Camilla and her daughter Princess Anne.

The days leading up to her death: Queen Elizabeth made her final public appearance on Tuesday, when she appointed the new British Prime Minister, Liz Truss. However, this important event occurred at Balmoral Castle instead of Buckingham Palace in London, where it had taken place during the entire 70-year reign of the queen. The special occasion’s location was moved due to the queen’s health issues.

On Wednesday, the queen was set to attend a privy council meeting. However, the meeting was soon postponed. In a statement, Buckingham Palace said, “After a full day yesterday, Her Majesty has this afternoon accepted doctors’ advice to rest. This means that the privy council meeting that had been due to take place this evening will be rearranged.”

Early Thursday morning, Buckingham Palace released a statement in which they said, “Following further evaluation this morning, The queen’s doctors are concerned for Her Majesty’s health and have recommended she remain under medical supervision. The queen remains comfortable and at Balmoral.”

Soon after the announcement, the queen’s closest descendants were seen making urgent travels to Balmoral, leading to speculations of the queen being on her deathbed. The queen’s death was officially announced at 6:30 PM later that night.

Why does it matter: The queen’s oldest son, Charles, has succeeded the throne and has taken the title of King Charles III. His wife Camilla is now the queen consort of the United Kingdom.

Prince William is now heir to the throne, followed by his three children Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Their mother, Princess Kate, would be the next queen consort.

The queen was both an important figure and symbol to the United Kingdom. Throughout her 70 year reign, she raised four children with her late husband, Prince Philip. Her funeral is scheduled to be Sept. 19, and more information can be found in the links below.

What are other sources to look at?
“Queen Elizabeth II: 15 Key Moments in Her Reign” – HISTORY.COM
“Queen’s coffin arrives at Buckingham Palace as crowds gather to pay their respects” – NBC
“Queen Elizabeth’s death: Reaction from world leaders” – Reuters