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Queen's Childhood Radio Hit Aided US-UK Ties
27 Jan
Summary
- Princess Elizabeth's 1940 radio address boosted morale and US-UK relations.
- Her phrase 'Come on, Margaret' became an unexpected viral sensation.
- The broadcast helped humanize Britain during critical WWII debates.
In 1940, a young Princess Elizabeth's radio address to Commonwealth children became an unlikely tool for strengthening the special relationship between Britain and the United States. Prime Minister Winston Churchill tasked the 14-year-old princess with the broadcast during World War II, a time when Britain stood alone against Nazi Germany and sought American support.
Her address, featuring a spontaneous interaction with her younger sister Margaret, captivated American listeners. The memorable phrase, 'Come on, Margaret,' made the broadcast an overnight sensation, akin to a modern viral moment. This unexpected popularity, leading to the speech being released as a record, helped humanize Britain's wartime efforts for the American public.
The broadcast's resonance occurred at a pivotal time, as American sentiment began to shift towards intervention. While the direct impact is unquantifiable, the future Queen's early engagement played a role in fostering a crucial alliance that would solidify following the bombing of Pearl Harbor in December 1941.
