The Legacy of Prince Philip: What Would Have Happened If Queen Elizabeth II Had Died First?

Prince Philip, the beloved Duke of Edinburgh, passed away on April 9, 2021, amidst the reflection of a life well-lived. However, an intriguing question lingers: how would history have unfolded if Queen Elizabeth II had died before her beloved consort?

Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Mother

To better understand this scenario, we can draw parallels from a similar situation that occurred during the reign of George VI and the Queen Mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. George VI died in 1952, and Elizabeth ascended to the throne. The Queen Mother lived until 2001, significantly outliving the King.

On November 28, 2021, you posed this question. Given that Prince Philip died in 2021 and Queen Elizabeth II is still alive, your hypothetical scenario is indeed impossible. Nevertheless, it is compelling to explore what would have transpired if the Queen had passed away first.

What Would Have Happened?

If the Queen had died before Prince Philip, it is undeniable that a period of national mourning would have ensued. A grand funeral with widespread media coverage would have been organized, reflecting the immense loss felt by the nation and the royals.

With the Queen’s death, Charles would have ascended as King. Prince Philip would have continued to reside in retirement at Wood Farm, an estate he shared with the Queen during her later years. His life in Wood Farm would likely have continued with minimal disruption.

Enhanced Respect and Admiration

Prince Philip would have been treated with unparalleled respect as he became the father of the King and the unofficial patriarch of the Royal Family. His late status and the significant patriarchal role in the family would have been celebrated and revered by the public and his descendants.

Continuing Legacy

Charles would have assumed the throne with minimal changes to the family dynamics. Prince Philip would continue to live in retirement, most likely at Wood Farm. His care would naturally be improved, reflecting the evolving duties and responsibilities of being a widowed royal. The same respect and honor would have been accorded to him, mirroring the treatment of Queen Elizabeth II after the death of Prince Philip.

Public Sympathy and Care

The public would have shown immense sympathy and respect towards Prince Philip, primarily because none of them (including him) expected him to outlive the Queen. This unexpected grief would have prompted a close watch from the nation to ensure his well-being, partly due to the heightened risk of mortality after losing a spouse.

Some speculate that Prince Philip might not have made it to the one-year anniversary of the Queen’s death. While this is a hypothetical scenario, it highlights the profound emotional impact of such a loss.

Throughout it all, Charles would have extended the same level of respect to his father, mirroring the same admiration and reverence that the nation and family had for Prince Philip.

Overall, while the specific roles and residences may have changed, the deep respect and love for Prince Philip would not have diminished. He would continue to be the cherished and respected patriarch of the Royal Family.