The British Academy pays tribute to Her Majesty the Queen

Professor Julia Black, President of the British Academy, said:

“The British Academy is deeply saddened by the death of Her Majesty the Queen, and our thoughts and condolences are with the Royal Family at this difficult time. The longest serving Monarch in British history, Queen Elizabeth’s life and reign was one of duty, stability and service; she was an enduring and reassuring presence in all our lives.

“For those in the humanities and social sciences, she will also be remembered as a passionate supporter of education and our disciplines. A keen historian with a love for the arts and languages, Queen Elizabeth awarded honours to many Fellows of the British Academy and gave her patronage to countless faculties, museums and institutions serving our disciplines. She will be greatly missed.”

The President of the British Academy escorts the Queen and Prince Philip as they leave the British Academy’s former premises, 20-21 Cornwall Terrace, London, following their official opening in 1983.

In the below tribute, former President of the British Academy Professor Sir David Cannadine reflects on Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth's long reign, her accomplishments and her legacy.