Isabella I of Castile

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Isabella I of Castile (22 April 1451 – 26 November 1504), also known as Isabella the Catholic, was Queen of Castile from 1474 until her death. She was married to Ferdinand II of Aragon, and together they were known as the Catholic Monarchs. Isabella's reign was marked by significant events that led to the unification of Spain, the expulsion of the Jews and Muslims, and the sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage, which led to the opening of the New World.

Early Life

Isabella was born in Madrigal de las Altas Torres, Avila, to John II of Castile and his second wife, Isabella of Portugal. Her early life was troubled by the political instability and conflict of her father's reign, which continued under the rule of her half-brother, Henry IV of Castile. Isabella's brother Alfonso was initially named heir but died suspiciously young, leading to Isabella being named Henry's heir under certain conditions.

Ascension to the Throne

Isabella's ascension to the throne in 1474 was contested by supporters of Juana, daughter of Henry IV, leading to a civil war. The conflict ended with Isabella's victory, solidifying her rule as Queen of Castile. Her marriage to Ferdinand II of Aragon in 1469 was a pivotal moment, uniting two of the most powerful Christian kingdoms in Iberia and laying the foundation for the modern Spanish state.

Reign and Achievements

During her reign, Isabella implemented significant reforms in government structure, the judiciary, and the military. She and Ferdinand established the Spanish Inquisition in 1478, aimed at consolidating their power through religious unity. The expulsion of the Jews in 1492 and the Muslims from Granada in 1502 were part of their efforts to Christianize Spain.

Isabella's support of Christopher Columbus in 1492 led to the discovery of the Americas, which opened up new trade routes and led to the Spanish colonization of the New World. This era marked the beginning of the Spanish Empire, a major world power for the next centuries.

Death and Legacy

Isabella died on 26 November 1504 in Medina del Campo, Spain. She was succeeded by her daughter, Juana, known as Juana la Loca. Isabella's legacy is complex; she is celebrated for her role in unifying Spain and her contributions to Spanish sovereignty and exploration. However, her reign is also criticized for the persecution of Jews and Muslims and the establishment of the Inquisition.

Titles, Styles, and Honors

Isabella held numerous titles, including Queen of Castile, León, Toledo, Galicia, Seville, Cordoba, Murcia, Jaén, the Algarves, Algeciras, Gibraltar, and the Canary Islands, Lady of Molina, and, by marriage, Queen of Aragon, Majorca, Valencia, Sardinia, and Naples.

See Also

• Ferdinand II of Aragon
• Christopher Columbus
• Spanish Inquisition
• Reconquista