Britain was still nursing wounds from the Second World War when preparations began for the marriage of Princess Elizabeth to Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten. Such a show of pageantry in an age of austerity could have spurred public anger, but instead had the cheering effect of a day off from other worries. Canada sent the couple a selection of antique silver and a mink coat. Other gifts included 200 New Brunswick lobsters and, in keeping with the times, Halifax sent a special food shipment to the British city of the same name. Elizabeth also received 80 pairs of nylon stockings from around the world. As the royal couple left for the honeymoon, the bridal bouquet was quietly laid at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Westminster Abbey. The event had provided a balm for a nation in recovery.
A Union Jack, whipping in the breeze from the Admiralty Arch, forms a frame for the scene on London's famed mall as the wedding procession of Princess Elizabeth moves from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey. (Associated Press)
The crowds outside Buckingham Palace, London, as people gather to watch the royal wedding of Princess Elizabeth, now Queen, and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now the Duke of Edinburgh.(Press Association)
The Irish Coach, conveying the bride, H.R.H. British Princess Elizabeth and her father, King George VI, to Westminster Abbey is seen passing the Victoria Memorial.(Associated Press)
Wedding gifts of jewelry for Princess Elizabeth and Lt. Philip Mountbatten are displayed in St. James' Palace in London. (Associated Press)
The main tier on the wedding cake of Princess Elizabeth and Lt. Philip Mountbatten, designed, baked and decorated by the chief confectioner of McVitie and Price. (Associated Press)
Five of the eight brides-maids who waited in the forecourt of Buckingham Palace, London , to give the royal newly-weds, Princess Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh, both unseen, a send off as they left for Broadlands, Romsey,Hampshire. (Associated Press)
The scene at the altar steps during the Royal Wedding Ceremony in Westminster Abbey. (Press Association)
Princess Elizabeth, now Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, now Prince Philip, at London's Buckingham Palace after their wedding ceremony. (Press Association)
H.R.H. Princess Elizabeth and H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh pose with Royal guests at Buckingham Palace in London, England, after their wedding. (Associated Press)
Princess Elizabeth, and her husband Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, wave to the crowd from the balcony of Buckingham Palace, London. (Associated Press)