Historical Context

The Real History Behind The Crown

The Crown dramatizes the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, exploring the personal intrigues, romances, and political rivalries behind the major events that shaped the second half of the 20th century. While the series takes creative liberties, many of the events depicted are based on historical facts.

1947: Royal Wedding

Princess Elizabeth marries Philip Mountbatten, formerly Prince Philip of Greece and Denmark, at Westminster Abbey.

1952: Accession to the Throne

King George VI dies, and Princess Elizabeth becomes Queen Elizabeth II while on a tour in Kenya.

1953: Coronation

Queen Elizabeth II's coronation takes place at Westminster Abbey, the first to be televised.

1956: Suez Crisis

Britain, France, and Israel invade Egypt after President Nasser nationalizes the Suez Canal, creating a major political crisis.

1965: Churchill's Funeral

Winston Churchill's state funeral was one of the largest gatherings of world leaders in history.

1969: Investiture of Prince Charles

Prince Charles is formally invested as the Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle.

1979: Assassination of Lord Mountbatten

The IRA assassinates Lord Mountbatten, Prince Philip's uncle, in a bombing in Ireland.

1981: Wedding of Charles and Diana

Prince Charles marries Lady Diana Spencer in a globally televised ceremony at St Paul's Cathedral.