Queen Victoria: The Grandmother of Europe

Queen Victoria, born Princess Alexandra Victoria in 1819, ascended to the British crown at the age of 18. Despite her popularity upon taking the throne, political scandals and court intrigue led to a decline in her reputation. She married her cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, in 1840. Though their marriage started as a political union, their love story became legendary. Over time, Albert gained increasing power and authority in the government, especially during Victoria's frequent pregnancies. The balance of power shifted again when Albert died suddenly in 1861. Victoria ruled during the Victorian Era, a period of widespread change brought about by the industrial revolution. Her impact on Europe was significant, with her grandchildren eventually seated on eight thrones across the continent. Victoria remained devoted to Albert even after his death, and her public presence varied throughout her reign. She passed away in 1901, leaving behind a legacy of leading an empire into a new era.