*Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II has died at the age of 96, according to Buckingham Palace.
*Her death brings to a close a reign that spanned seven decades and made her the most recognized woman in the world.
*As monarch, the Queen is automatically granted a publicly funded state funeral. Details for the funeral are expected to be released by the palace soon.
*Her eldest son, Charles, immediately became King of the United Kingdom upon the death of his mother. He will rule under the name King Charles III.