Elizabeth I of England

Reign: 1558 – 1603
Life: 1533–1603

The younger daughter of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I is widely considered one of England's greatest monarchs. Her sister, Mary I, ascended the throne after the death of their brother, Edward VI, which eventually led to Elizabeth's imprisonment, and she was nearly executed. The Elizabethan age was a cultural golden age, which was in part fostered by her patronage. Known as the "Virgin Queen", Elizabeth used her status as a single woman as a diplomatic bargaining tool with foreign suitors. In 1601, she established the English Poor Laws which created a nationwide tax-funded system for those vulnerable and in poverty. She famously rallied her troops at Tilbury in 1588 with an inspiring speech, providing a legendary moment of defiance during the conflict with the powerful Spanish Armada.

During Elizabeth I of England's reign, Akbar ruled Mughal Empire, John III of Sweden ruled Sweden, and Murad III ruled Ottoman Empire.

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Elizabeth I by Anne Somerset

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Elizabeth I

Anne Somerset

Widely praised as the best single-volume life, judicious, detailed, and beautifully written.

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