Isabella I of Castile
Queen of Castile and Aragon, unifier of Spain
Born
Died
1504
522 years ago — 53 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Spain
Links & References
Ascended to the throne of Castile in 1474, this monarch united the crowns of Castile and Aragon through marriage to Ferdinand II, forming the basis of modern Spain. This reign saw the completion of the Reconquista with the conquest of Granada in 1492, the expulsion of Jews from Spain, and the sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's 1492 expedition which led to the discovery of the Americas. The establishment of a centralized Spanish state and significant developments in culture and exploration characterized her rule. Trust in her vision for Spain reshaped the national identity and global presence.
Unified Castile and Aragon
Completed the Reconquista
Sponsored Christopher Columbus's voyage
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