2002: The golden jubilee

The 50th anniversary of the Queen’s accession followed a decade of shocks to the monarchy: the divorces of three of her children, and the fire at Windsor Castle,  whereafter the Queen wished to pay income tax for the first time. These events led to questioning both the monarchy’s popularity and its long-term viability.

After the deaths of Princess Margaret and the Queen Mother at the age of 101, the public reaction revealed respect and affection for the monarchy. These are some events that contributed to another successful jubilee celebration.