Queen Isabella I: The Queen Who Unified Spain

Isabella I, an important monarch in Spanish history, achieved the unification of Spain during her reign and supported Christopher Columbus's feat of discovering the New World. Her life is filled with legendary colors, having profound impacts on Spanish and even world history. Born in 1451, Isabella was the granddaughter of King João I of Portugal and the daughter of Prince Pedro of Portugal. Her mother was the daughter of King Juan II of Castile. Displaying intelligence and wit since childhood, Isabella received excellent education, learning multiple languages as well as literature and history. In 1474, Isabella married Prince Ferdinand of Aragon, a political marriage that laid the foundation for the future unification of Spain. In the same year, upon her father's death, Isabella ascended the throne as Queen, known as "Isabella of Castile." Alongside her husband, she governed the country, striving to strengthen centralization and promote political, economic, and cultural development. Under Isabella's leadership, Spain completed the conquest of Granada, ending Muslim rule in Spain and achieving religious and political unity. She also promoted the Renaissance movement in Spain, attracting many artists and scholars, making Toledo an important cultural center in Europe. One of Isabella's most notable achievements is her support for Christopher Columbus. In 1492, Columbus presented his nautical plan to Isabella, and despite much opposition, she firmly supported him and provided funding. Columbus's voyage led to the discovery of the New World, bringing immense wealth and territorial expansion to Spain. Isabella was not only an outstanding monarch but also a strict Catholic. She was committed to upholding religious purity, establishing the Inquisition and expelling Jews and Muslims. While this practice was controversial, it reflected her firm belief in religion and morality. Isabella passed away in 1504, her life filled with legends and achievements. She not only achieved the unification of Spain but also contributed to Spain's overseas expansion and the Renaissance. Her decisions and actions have had profound impacts on later generations, making her an enduring figure in Spanish history.

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