Queen Victoria was born on May 24, 1819 and reigned as the Queen of the United Kingdom of

Great Britain and Ireland for over 63 years, from 1837 until her death in 1901. She was the longest-
reigning British monarch at that time. Queen Victoria’s reign, known as the Victorian era, was a
period of significant political, cultural, and industrial changes.
Victoria became Queen at the age of 18, following the death of her uncle, King William IV. She
married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha in 1840, and they had nine children together.
Prince Albert played a significant role in supporting Victoria’s reign, advising her on numerous
matters and assisting with various reform projects.

During her reign, Queen Victoria witnessed the transformation of Britain into an industrial
powerhouse, with developments in the fields of manufacturing, transportation, and
communication. The Victorian era also saw the expansion of the British Empire, with Britain
becoming the world’s largest colonial power.

Queen Victoria’s rule was marked by several important political and social changes. The Great
Exhibition of 1851, which showcased Britain’s industrial progress, symbolized the era’s emphasis
on innovation and progress. However, this period was also marked by social inequality and
exploitation, leading to various social reform movements.

Victoria’s personal life also had a profound impact on her reign. The death of her husband, Prince
Albert, in 1861 plunged her into a deep mourning period, during which she withdrew from public
life for some time. She wore black mourning clothes for the rest of her life and avoided many
public appearances.

Despite the challenges and tragedies she faced, Queen Victoria’s reign left a lasting impact on
Britain and the wider world. Her reign saw the expansion of constitutional monarchy and the
consolidation of British power. Queen Victoria’s reign also saw advancements in science, literature,
and culture, with renowned figures such as Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, and the Bronte sisters
emerging during this time.

Queen Victoria’s death on January 22, 1901, marked the end of an era. Her reign shaped the
course of British history and left a legacy that is still remembered today.