2022 - Queen Elizabeth II‘s death

Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September 2022 at Balmoral Castle in Scotland at the age of 96, after reigning for 70 years.

Her death was announced publicly by Buckingham Palace shortly after it occurred. The news triggered an immediate period of national mourning in the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms.
Flags were lowered to half-mast, and official public life was paused in many places.
The media reaction was global and immediate. News channels switched to continuous coverage, focusing on her long reign, historical role, and personal legacy. Many broadcasters also changed their programming schedules for days of coverage and tribute. Public reaction included large gatherings outside royal residences and places connected to her life.

The response from the British Royal Family was formal and structured. The new King, King Charles III, issued his first statement as monarch, expressing grief and marking the beginning of a new reign. The royal household followed long-prepared protocols, including “Operation London Bridge,” which organizes official procedures after the death of a monarch.

2022 - ”Annus Horiblis“

Queen Elizabeth II had a very difficult year in 1997, which is often described in hindsight as an “annus horribilis” (Latin for “horrible year”).

One of the main reasons was the death of Diana, Princess of Wales in a car crash in Paris in August 1997. The public reaction in the UK was extremely emotional, with widespread grief and criticism of how the royal family initially responded. Many people felt the royal family appeared too distant at first, which created tension between the monarchy and the public.

Earlier that year, there was also the divorce of Prince Charles and Diana, which had already brought intense media attention and public pressure on the royal family. 
In addition, Windsor Castle suffered significant fire damage in November 1992, which contributed to a broader period of challenges for the monarchy in the 1990s, including financial and public image issues.