A royal biographer claims one late decision by Queen Elizabeth II regarding Prince Andrew will “go down as a mistake” that outlasted her, though her overall legacy remains strong.
As the royal family prepares for what would have been her 100th birthday, her 70-year reign is being reassessed. While she is praised for holding the monarchy together through crises like Princess Diana’s death, family breakdowns, and the Harry and Meghan exit, her final years were overshadowed by controversy around Prince Andrew and his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
She reportedly helped support his legal settlement in 2022, a decision critics still question. However, biographers stress that her “greatness remains,” highlighting her stability, duty, and role in strengthening the monarchy.
Supporters say she was a calming force during national crises like COVID-19 and left the institution in stronger shape despite ongoing family issues.