What's Happening?
Queen Elizabeth II maintained a unique and enduring friendship with Monty Roberts, a California cowboy known for his gentle horse training methods. Their relationship began in 1989 when Roberts was invited to the UK to share his techniques. Over the years,
they shared hundreds of phone calls, with Roberts being one of the few people the Queen would speak to at any time, even during political meetings. Roberts, who passed away at 91, was deeply trusted by the Queen, who encouraged him to write a book and tour the UK to promote his methods. Their bond was so strong that Roberts once humorously recounted how the Queen used his call as an excuse to leave a political meeting.
Why It's Important?
This story highlights the personal side of Queen Elizabeth, showcasing her passion for horses and her ability to form deep, personal connections beyond her royal duties. The friendship with Roberts underscores the Queen's interest in non-violent animal training and her influence in promoting such methods globally. This relationship also reflects the Queen's personal interests and how they intersected with her public life, offering a glimpse into her character and values. Roberts' influence on the Queen and her family, including the Queen Mother, illustrates the impact of his training methods on the royal family's approach to horse management.
