For many of us across the UK and Commonwealth, The Queen’s speech was a staple of Christmas Day festivities, and her familiar, reassuring presence will surely be missed this year. With each message, Her Majesty would share her personal reflection on the year passed, touching on everything from global events and current issues to national highlights and personal losses.
In 1966, The Queen reflected on the changing role of women in society, saying, ‘the opportunities for women to give something of value to the human family are greater than ever, because, through their own efforts, they are now beginning to play their full part in public life.’
Other speeches addressed the rise of technology, war in the Middle East, Olympic and Paralympic successes, and the passing of her loved ones.
Her Majesty’s grandfather, King George V, delivered the first ever royal speech over the wireless on Christmas Day in 1932. The Queen continued the tradition, delivering her first speech from the same desk her father, King George VI, used.
Her Majesty broadcast a speech every Christmas except for in 1969, as a documentary about The Royal Family had been scheduled. Its absence caused such concern that she issued a statement promising its return the following Christmas.
1952 The Queen’s first Christmas message
In The Queen’s first address, she spoke of her ‘beloved father’ and pledged to continue his Christmas message tradition, as well as his duties as monarch. She said, ‘My father, and my grandfather before him, worked all their lives to unite our peoples ever more closely, and to maintain its ideals, which were so near to their hearts. I shall strive to carry on their work.’
1957 The first speech on television
The Queen was broadcast into homes across the nation, and around the world, for her first televised address in 1957. Now, viewers could watch her speaking directly to them from her own home, alongside photographs of her family, including an image of her children, the then Prince Charles and Princess Anne.
1967 Her Majesty in colour
Early televised speeches were shot in black and white but, as technology advanced, it was time for The Queen’s Speech to be seen in full colour. A backdrop of turquoise curtains and Her Majesty’s stunning gold dress ensured a rich and vibrant broadcast for her 1967 Christmas message.
2003 A speech from the Barracks
The Queen’s speech on Christmas Day was usually recorded at one of the royal residences, but, in 2003, Her Majesty spoke from Combermere Barracks in Windsor. In her address she said: ‘I wa
