Elizabeth I and the Golden Age

Elizabeth I (reigned 1558-1603) was the last Tudor monarch. Her reign is known as the 'Golden Age' — a time of exploration, literature (Shakespeare), and national confidence. Key events: the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588; the expansion of English exploration and trade; the flourishing of arts and theatre. She never married and was known as the 'Virgin Queen'. When she died in 1603 without an heir, the crown passed to James VI of Scotland.