Throughout Queen Elizabeth’s life, one if her most enduring relationships was the one she shared with her younger sister, Princess Margaret. At the age of 4, then-Princess Elizabeth became an older sibling. Her sister Margaret was born in August 1930, and the two little girls had an undeniable and unbreakable bond from the start. Despite their different personalities and roles within the royal family, they shared a deep bond as sisters.
Growing up, Elizabeth and Margaret were very close, especially since they were raised in a relatively sheltered environment. As young princesses, they were each other’s primary companions, particularly after their uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated in 1936, making Elizabeth the heir to the throne.
During World War II, they lived together at Windsor Castle for safety, strengthening their connection. Their childhood was filled with shared experiences, and they often played together, with Margaret known for her lively and mischievous nature, while Elizabeth was more serious and responsible.
As Elizabeth became Queen in 1952, their relationship evolved. Margaret had more freedom but also struggled with the constraints of royal duty. She was known for her glamorous and rebellious spirit, while Elizabeth took on the immense responsibility of ruling the nation.
Margaret’s personal life, particularly her relationship with Group Captain Peter Townsend, was a major challenge in their relationship. Elizabeth had to balance her role as a sister with her duty as Queen, ultimately unable to approve Margaret’s marriage to Townsend due to royal and government restrictions. This caused tension, but they remained close despite this difficult period.
Even as their lives took different paths, they maintained a strong connection. Elizabeth was always supportive of Margaret, especially during her later health struggles. Margaret, in turn, remained loyal to her sister and deeply respected her position as Queen.
When Margaret passed away in 2002, Queen Elizabeth was reportedly devastated. Her grief was evident, as they had shared an irreplaceable bond as sisters who had experienced the unique pressures and privileges of royal life together.
Their relationship was a blend of love, duty, and mutual respect, with both sisters navigating the challenges of being royal in their own ways.
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| Margaret gave a serious face for this sweet portrait taken in 1932. |
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| Elizabeth and Margaret held on to each other outside their home in 1932. |
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| Their style and grace was apparent in this cute portrait from 1932. |
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| Elizabeth and Margaret posed on a rocking horse together in 1932. |
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| Elizabeth and Margaret posed with their dog Chu-Chu at the Royal Lodge in 1936. |
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