Elizabeth I Armada Portrait George Gower (Public Domain) Elizabeth I reigned as queen of England from 1558 to 1603. Her 44-year reign was so long and packed with momentous events that the second half of the 16th century is now known as the Elizabethan era and still regarded as a 'Golden Age' for England. Elizabeth succeeded her elder half-sister Mary I of England (r. 1553-1558). Exasperating ministers and suitors alike with her prevarication, the queen was a shrewd and capable ruler who ... Elizabeth I , the Virgin Queen, ruled from 1558 to 1603, guiding England through religious turmoil, political intrigue, and military triumphs. Explore her reign. Queen Elizabeth I was the last monarch of the Tudor dynasty. Her reign, known as the Elizabethan period, lasted from 1558 until her death in 1603. The daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, Elizabeth became Queen aged 25, at a time of political crisis. Known as the 'Virgin Queen', she never married but instead pledged her body to England itself. Elizabeth ’s path to the throne was by no means smooth. After her mother was executed at the Tower of London, the young Princess was declared ...
