I am a student of history, so of course I paid attention last week when I first heard that Queen Elizabeth II seemed to be in failing health.

A few hours later when I heard that “breaking news” chime on my phone, my heart sank — somehow I knew she had come to the end of her days.

As a history major who concentrated on the Protestant Reformation in Europe, I studied many different monarchs and their impact on the world. I know that monarchies, in general, and autocratic governments may be successful for those at or near the top, but rarely are they truly good for the people over whom they rule.

Still many of the individuals who have ruled kingdoms and empires around the world over the centuries have been fascinating characters. From their family trees — and inherited health problems — to their passions, skills and ambitions, many seem to be true forces of nature.

That definitely is true of Queen Elizabeth II.

Of course, she didn’t rule with an iron fist. Long gone are the days of absolute power of the British monarchy. Instead, the crown is more of a head of state than a head of government in the United Kingdom, which today is in fact a constitutional monarchy with an elected Parliament that makes political decisions that the monarch has no ability to make.

Throughout her long and incredible life, though, Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor set a fine example for the people of the UK — and for people around the world. She was born April 21, 1926, but she was not born to be queen. She ascended to the throne only after her uncle, King Edward VIII, abdicated to marry an American divorcee. Her father then became King George VI, making Elizabeth the heir apparent.

On her 21st birthday, she famously devoted her own life to all the people of the British Empire. And she meant what she said, serving her nation until her dying day at age 96.

Among the milestones she achieved were making the first-ever trans-Atlantic phone call to speak to her parents when they were touring Canada and parts of North America, becoming the first reigning monarch to visit Australia and New Zealand, serving as a driver and mechanic in the Auxiliary Territorial Service during world War II and making a radio address at age 14 to inspire the children of the nation who had been evacuated due to WWII bombings to be brave and have hope for the future.

Known to be a lover of animals — particularly horses and dogs, especially her own beloved Corgis — Elizabeth II attended countless public events and ceremonies, often with a twinkle in her eye.

Despite her apparent optimism and good humor, she was know to be a pillar of responsibility and to maintain strict adherence to traditions that still define the British monarchy to this day. She was famous the world around for her personal style, which almost always included brightly colored suits and dresses, matching hats and an ever-present handbag.

Her reputation was not flawless, but she always remained steady and strong in the face of adversity and never faltered in her dedication to her duty.

As her country, her family and the world mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II, let’s look to the example she set and learn from it.