Queen Elizabeth II quotes: 11 of the monarch's best speeches

The Queen turns 94 on 21 April

Queen Elizabeth II is the longest reigning monarch in British history (AFP via Getty Images)

Queen Elizabeth II is celebrating her 94th birthday on 21 April.

Based on tradition, it will be a small, private affair – the British monarch celebrates her "official birthday" with the public in the summer – and even more so this year due to the coronavirus lockdown.

But the Queen, who celebrated her 68th year on the throne in February, is no stranger to events big or small that have changed the world.

Her coronation was the first to be televised, bringing the momentous occasion into the living rooms of the British public. Her annual Christmas address became televised too, changing the relationship between the British Royal Family and the nation.

While she has no involvement in politics, the Queen has worked with 14 different Prime Ministers, including Boris Johnson. Former colonies including Ghana and Jamaica have gained independence during her reign, the UK has joined and left the EU, and now the coronavirus pandemic that's ravaging the nation.

In her own family, she has weathered storms too, including the high profile divorce of Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales; the sudden and tragic death of the "People's Princess"; and most recently, Megxit.

Through this, the Queen has remained stoic, often showing her wry sense of humour, seen through her many public addresses and engagements. She has also continuously evolved, from sending her first tweet to recording her Christmas message in 3D. And who could forget her memorable appearance in the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympics?

So on the Queen's birthday, here are some of her most memorable quotes.