Born: 16 April 1940, Denmark
Died: NA
Country most active: Denmark
Also known as: Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid
The following bio was written by Emma Rosen, author of On This Day She Made History: 366 Days With Women Who Shaped the World and This Day In Human Ingenuity & Discovery: 366 Days of Scientific Milestones with Women in the Spotlight, and has been republished with permission.
In 1972, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, born Margrethe Alexandrine Þórhildur Ingrid, ascended the throne, becoming the first Queen of Denmark since 1412.
She was the Queen of Denmark for 52 years, making her the longest-serving female head of state. She abdicated January 14, 2024, in favor of her son, Crown Prince Frederik.
As the eldest child of King Frederik IX and Queen Ingrid, Margrethe became heir presumptive in 1953 when Danish law allowed female succession. She married Henri de Laborde de Monpezat in 1967 and had two sons.
During her reign, she conducted numerous state visits and foreign trips. Aside from her royal duties, Margrethe was a scenographer, costume designer, and illustrator of J. R. R. Tolkien’s works. She has a strong interest in archaeology, has designed church textiles, and uses découpage for artistic creations.
Margrethe represents Denmark abroad, attends events, receives ambassadors, and bestows honors. She maintains political neutrality by not voting. Her health has had its challenges, including surgeries and past smoking habits.
Margrethe’s Golden Jubilee in 2022 marked her as Europe’s longest-reigning monarch.