Queen Victoria

Queen Victoria was born 24 May 1819. She was the granddaughter of George III, and her father, Edward was fourth in line to the throne. But when the prince of Wales died early, his brothers sought to get married and maintain the line of succession.

Edward married Princess Victoria from Germany, and the couple had just one child, Alexandrina Victoria, who was born at Kensington Palace in 1819. As a young girl, Victoria’s father died, followed six days later by King George III. The throne then passed to King William IV, but, he too died early. This left Victoria to be crowned at the age of 18, in June 1837.Queen Victoria was to reign until her death on 22nd January 1901

 

The 19th Century was a time of unprecedented expansion for Britain in term of both of industry and Empire. Although her popularity ebbed and flowed during her reign, towards the end of her crown, she had become a symbol of British imperialism and pride. The Victorian period also witnessed great advances in science and technology.

Queen Victoria was also highly devoted to her husband, Prince Albert; together they had nine children. When Prince Albert died in 1861, Queen Victoria went into deep mourning and struggled to overcome this loss.