Queen Victoria

Early Life and Ascension to the Throne

Queen Victoria was the monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 until her death in 1901. She was also the first British ruler to have the title of Empress of India and was also one of the longest-reigning British monarchs in history.

Victoria was born at Kensington Palace in London as the only child of Prince Edward and Princess Victoria. Victoria’s birthright placed her fifth in line for the crown. Tragically, her father passed away before she turned 1, and her uncle William IV ascended the throne. As her uncles had no legitimate heirs, Victoria became the rightful heir to the throne.

The Kensington System and Early Challenges

Victoria’s life was filled with challenges as her mother, Princess Maria Louisa Victoria, aligned with courtier John Conroy putting in place the infamous Kensington System. These set of rules were so strict that they isolated Victoria and demanded her obedience.

However, Victoria ascended to the throne at the age of 18 after her father’s three elder brothers died without leaving behind any surviving children. The Kensington System enforced by her mother and John Conroy sought to control the young queen. Victoria always shared a bedroom with her mother and was not allowed to be alone. However, following her ascension, she fired John Conroy and moved into Buckingham Palace making her the first monarch to live there.

Guidance and Modernization

In her diary, Queen Victoria expressed her determination to fulfill her duty towards her country, despite her youth and inexperience. She sought guidance from British Prime Minister Lord Melbourne, who became her trusted advisor and confidante. Under Melbourne’s influence, Victoria embarked on a journey to modernize the empire and regain public approval of the monarchy.

Coronation and Marriage

Victoria’s coronation took place a year after her ascension to the throne thereby solidifying her position as a reigning monarch. The grand event was attended by dignitaries from around the world.

She married her first cousin Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840. Albert played a significant role in shaping Victoria’s priorities and projects, particularly in the fields of arts, sciences, trade, and industry. Together, they had nine children. Their marriage was built on love and devotion.

Reign and Achievements

Victoria’s reign is remembered for the industrial, cultural, political, and scientific change it brought to the United Kingdom and abroad. She presided over the expansion of the United Kingdom which became a global superpower in the world. She was popular and respected among her subjects due to her morality and high sense of duty.

Loss and Mourning

The death of her husband in 1861 hit her deeply and she went into mourning and seclusion for several years which put a dent in her otherwise powerful reign.

Return to Duty and Later Years

However, Victoria eventually returned to her duties and regained her popularity among her subjects. She shifted her focus to foreign policy, support for charities, healthcare, education, and the expansion of the British Empire.

Jubilees and Legacy

In 1887, Queen Victoria celebrated her Golden Jubilee, marking the 50th anniversary of her accession. The event solidified her image and popularity among her subjects, earning her the nickname “Grandmother of Europe.” A decade later, in 1897, Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee commemorated her 60th anniversary on the throne, further cementing her legacy.

Death and Succession

She passed away in 1901 at the age of 81 and was succeeded by her eldest son Edward VII.