Queen of the World: Elizabeth II: Sovereign and Stateswoman

A monarch who has reigned for over half a century is bound to have made an indelible mark on global affairs, and that is the contention at the heart of Hardman's (Her Majesty: The Court of Queen Elizabeth II) intimate, detailed look at Elizabeth II's role in British foreign relations. Recounting the most memorable of the queen's visits to nations outside the UK, as well as state visits she's hosted for numerous world leaders, Hardman shows how the queen has served as Britain's most effective "export;" a figure able to transcend politics and preserve harmony in international relationships, even when governments fail to see eye to eye, gracefully handling the transition from Britain's historical empire to its modern Commonwealth of Nations, for which she serves as both official head and enthusiastic champion. Drawing on the anecdotes of former private secretaries, diplomats, and heads of state, Hardman provides behind-the-scenes glimpses into Elizabeth's comprehensive grasp of international relations, attention to detail, and steely determination to maintain a respectful, cooperative spirit among her "family" of nations.