Elizabeth I (1533–1603) Elizabeth, I ruled England for more than 40 years, a reign so influential that it is known as the Elizabethan Age. Her mother was beheaded when Elizabeth was only two years old, and her stepsister, Mary I, accused Elizabeth of treason and had her imprisoned in 1554. Perhaps as a result of these events, Elizabeth’s great talents were caution and strategic thinking. When the 25-year-old Elizabeth assumed the throne, she quickly moved to unify her country. She made it clear that Protestantism would be the religion of England. Through taxes she replenished the treasury. She never married, though she had many suitors. She cautiously avoided European wars, but when her diplomatic games led the Spanish Armada to invade, her navy famously stopped them in the English Channel.
More About the Image: The original of this painting of Elizabeth I is attributed to George Gower. It was painted in oil on a wooden panel, around 1588, to commemorate the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

1. Making Inferences In what ways do you think the events during Elizabeth’s youth molded her character?

2. Interpreting Significance Queen Elizabeth’s refusal to marry was a controversial political decision at the time. Why? Why might Elizabeth have chosen to remain single?