Elizabeth I would become the longest reigning English monarch in the nearly two Centuries and the first women to successfully occupy the English throne. Elizabeth's reign would be historically revered as a golden age, when England began to rise to the position of a strong world power. The country however, would differ greatly from the time when Elizabeth became queen to the time she died. Elizabeth enjoyed much popularity during her life and became tan even greater legend even after her death. Elizabeth I (1533-1603) was a remarkable monarch; her reign was characterized by her effective use of Parliament to improve the economy, her firm establishment of Protestantism England, her powerful defense against the Spanish Armada, and her notable strengths as a female ruler. .
Elizabeth I was born on September 7, 1533. She was the daughter of Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Due to her father's continuing search for a male heir Elizabeth's childhood was dangerously lacking in security or stability. Elizabeth's mother, Anne was charged with treason and of having love affairs and of conspiring to kill Henry. On May 19, 1536, Anne was beheaded (Somerset 6-7). Henry would now have his first two marriages annulled; this would give way for Henry third wife. With the annulment of his prior marriages his two daughters, Mary and Elizabeth were considered bastards, children born outside the marriage. They would then be thought of as illegitimate; they would be no longer in line to succeed the King. (Bush 19-20). Although Elizabeth was illegitimate she would still be brought up in a royal home. Elizabeth was very well educated. She was tutored by some of the countries most brilliant scholars. Elizabeth studied Latin, Greek, French, and Italian. She was also well.
versed in astronomy, geography, and her favorite history. Elizabeth was taught it become a very well rounded young lady she learned how to ride horses and play music.