Isabella I of Castile, known as "the Catholic Queen," ascended to the throne in 1474 and became Europe's first great queen. She reigned for over thirty years with her husband, Ferdinand II of Aragon, and together they unified Spain and expanded its territories. Isabella's intelligence, determination, and diplomatic skills were instrumental in her success. She was a patron of the arts and education, supporting scholars and artists like Christopher Columbus, who discovered America with her patronage. Isabella's legacy extends beyond her reign; she played a pivotal role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of Europe, solidifying Spain's position as a major power and leaving an enduring mark on its history.
