Queen Victoria is perhaps one of the most iconic British monarchs of all time – a social trailblazer and a force to be reckoned with! She’s a name that’s recognised the world over, even to this day. But, what was so remarkable about Queen Victoria, and how did her reign stand out among others? Here are some fun facts about Queen Victoria to help top up your knowledge for the pub quiz.
1. In the beginning…
Queen Victoria entered the world over two centuries ago! She was born on May 24, 1819, in Kensington Palace, London, England.
2. She was Queen from a very young age.
Victoria ascended to the throne and became Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland as of June 20, 1837, at the age of 18! She took on the role following the death of her uncle, King William IV.
3. She was in charge for a long time, too!
Queen Victoria is known for having had a long-lasting reign! Her reign lasted for a stunning 63 years and seven months, which made her the longest-reigning monarch in British history until she was surpassed by Queen Elizabeth II in 2015.
4. Victoria and Albert made an iconic couple.
Queen Victoria married her first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, in 1840. They were known for being deeply in love with one another. Forget Harry and Meghan, Victoria and Albert was the royal power couple everyone was talking about.
5. She was the “Grandmother of Europe!”
Queen Victoria and Prince Albert eventually had nine children together! Each child later married into various European royal families, earning Queen Victoria the nickname “the grandmother of Europe.”
6. Albert was more than just a husband and King Consort.
Prince Albert played an important role in Queen Victoria’s life and reign. Beyond being the father to her children, Prince Albert was her trusted advisor and partner. This is why his death in 1861 deeply affected her. She mourned him for the rest of her life.
7. Victoria helped the Empire thrive.
During Queen Victoria’s reign, the British Empire expanded greatly. It even reached its zenith, with Britain becoming the world’s foremost imperial power! The period was known as the Victorian era, characterized by industrial, cultural, and scientific advancements.
8. Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes!
Queen Victoria’s reign resulted in some very significant social and political changes. These included the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1833 and the extension of voting rights during the Reform Acts of 1832, 1867, and 1884. We have a lot to thank her for!
9. Victoria was a moral leader.
Queen Victoria was known for her strict moral code and a strong sense of duty. She was often portrayed as a symbol of the British Empire’s values and virtues. Even to this day, she’s one of the first monarchs people think of when they think of the UK.
10. The end of an era.
Queen Victoria passed away on January 22nd, 1901, aged 81, at Osborne House based on the Isle of Wight. Her reign marked an era of significant change and progress, leaving a lasting impact on British history and culture, one that will not soon be forgotten!
FAQs about Queen Victoria
Who was Queen Victoria to Queen Elizabeth?
Queen Elizabeth II was Queen Victoria’s great-great-granddaughter – and, they had similar reigns, as both queens reigned over their kingdoms for a very long time!
What was Queen Victoria famous for?
Queen Victoria was famous for a great many things. However, most remember her time as a queen being associated with the great age of industrial expansion and economic progress for the British empire. She was also known for deeply loving her husband and being in mourning for a very long time following his death.
Was Queen Victoria English or German?
Queen Victoria’s mother was from Germany, and she was raised by a German baroness, so she was indeed fluent in the language, too. However, she was born in England and proudly ruled as its queen for decades!
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/British-Empire
https://www.rct.uk/discover/school-resources/queen-victoria
https://www.biography.com/royalty/queen-victoria
Do you know any fun facts about Queen Victoria? Share them in the comments below!