LONDON — Thousands gathered outside Buckingham Palace this week to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away at 96, marking the end of a record-breaking 70-year reign. Amid floral tributes and subdued conversations, residents shared their thoughts on the historic moment with myglobalnews.net.
A Historic Moment at Buckingham Palace
Mourners described the atmosphere as \"both somber and unifying,\" with crowds applauding as a rainbow appeared over the palace hours after the announcement. \"She was a constant in our lives—through wars, crises, even pandemics,\" said Sarah Mitchell, a London teacher. \"It feels like the end of an era.\"
Quiet Optimism for the Future
While many expressed sadness, others voiced cautious hope for King Charles III’s reign. \"Change can be daunting, but he’s spent decades preparing for this,\" noted Raj Patel, a tech entrepreneur. A young voter added: \"I hope the monarchy evolves to reflect modern Britain.\" CGTN’s local team reported similar themes, with one attendee stressing the Queen’s role as \"a bridge between generations.\"
A Global Legacy
Beyond the UK, analysts note the Queen’s death sparks discussions about the monarchy’s relevance in Commonwealth nations and its soft-power role. Over 10,000 people visited the palace in the first 24 hours, according to organizers—a testament to her enduring cultural impact.
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What do London residents think about Queen Elizabeth II's passing?
cgtn.com