Queen Isabella of Castile
Early Life
Queen Isabella of Castile, known as Isabella I, was born on April 22, 1451, in the town of Madrigal de las Altas Torres. She was the daughter of John II of Castile and his second wife, Isabella of Portugal. Isabella's early years were spent at the court of her half-brother, Henry IV. She was educated in the royal court and was well-versed in statecraft, Latin, and the Catholic faith, which would later play a significant role in her reign.
Ascension to the Throne
Isabella's half-brother, King Henry IV of Castile, was a weak ruler, and his reign was marked by civil unrest. Upon his death in 1474, Isabella proclaimed herself queen of Castile with the support of a significant faction of the nobility. However, her ascension to the throne was contested by her niece, Juana la Beltraneja, leading to a civil war known as the War of the Castilian Succession.
Marriage to Ferdinand
In 1469, Isabella married Ferdinand of Aragon, uniting the two major kingdoms of Spain. Their marriage was a political alliance, but it also became a close and supportive partnership. Together, they reformed the Spanish government, reduced the power of the nobility, and strengthened the monarchy.
Reign
Isabella and Ferdinand's reign was marked by significant events that shaped the history of Spain and the world. They completed the Reconquista, expelling the Moors from Granada in 1492. They also sponsored Christopher Columbus's voyage to the New World, leading to the discovery of the Americas.
Religious Policies
Isabella was a devout Catholic and she used her faith to influence her rule. She established the Spanish Inquisition in 1478 to enforce Catholic orthodoxy, leading to the expulsion of Jews and Muslims who refused to convert to Christianity.
Death and Legacy
Queen Isabella died on November 26, 1504. Her death marked the end of one of the most successful reigns in Spanish history. She left a lasting legacy, transforming Spain into a global superpower and laying the foundation for the Spanish Golden Age.