Summary
Queen Elizabeth II's longevity has helped anchor Britain during an era of unprecedented change, but has also left the royal family an aging institution.
The 89-year-old queen, who next week surpasses Queen Victoria to become the country's longest-reigning monarch, shows no sign of abdicating, even if she has stepped back a little from public duties in favor of her 66-year-old son and heir Charles.
Charles' son Prince William is second in line to the throne and his eldest son George third, followed by George's little sister Charlotte – a strong dynasty that could continue for another century.
Many commentators predict a slow period of transition of power to Charles.
A recent ComRes survey for the Daily Mail newspaper found that 79 percent of respondents liked William, compared to 77 percent for the queen and 53 percent for Charles.
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