Queen Victoria: A Profile

 

Full Name: Alexandrina Victoria
Born: May 24, 1819
Died: January 22, 1901
Reign: June 20, 1837 – January 22, 1901

Early Life

Queen Victoria was born at Kensington Palace, London, to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld. She became queen at the age of 18 after the death of her uncle, King William IV, as there were no legitimate male heirs.

Reign & Rule

Victoria's reign lasted 63 years and 216 days, making her the longest-reigning British monarch until Queen Elizabeth II surpassed her in 2015. Her era, known as the Victorian Era, was marked by industrial progress, the expansion of the British Empire, and significant social and political change. Under her rule:

  • The British Empire expanded dramatically, making it the largest empire in history.
  • She presided over major constitutional changes, reducing the monarchy’s direct power and shaping it into a more symbolic role.
  • She was deeply involved in political affairs, working closely with Prime Ministers such as Lord Melbourne and Benjamin Disraeli.

Marriage & Family

In 1840, Victoria married her cousin Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, with whom she had nine children. Albert was a great influence on her, promoting education, science, and social reform. After his death in 1861, she mourned him for the rest of her life, wearing black and withdrawing from public life for many years.

Death & Legacy

Queen Victoria passed away on January 22, 1901, at Osborne House, Isle of Wight, at the age of 81. Her death marked the end of the Victorian Era and the transition to the Edwardian Era under her son, King Edward VII.

Interesting Facts

  • She was only 4’11” tall but had a strong personality and presence.
  • She was the first British monarch to live in Buckingham Palace.
  • She survived seven assassination attempts.
  • She proposed to Prince Albert, rather than the other way around (as per royal protocol).
  • She was known as the "Grandmother of Europe", as her descendants married into many European royal families.
  • She was the first British monarch to be photographed.

Her reign left a lasting impact on Britain and the world, shaping modern constitutional monarchy and British society.