Isabel of Aragon, also known as Isabella I of Castile, was a significant figure in Spanish history, born in 1451. She became Queen of Castile in 1474 and later married Ferdinand II of Aragon, uniting their kingdoms and laying the foundation for modern Spain. Together, they are known as the Catholic Monarchs. Isabel is best known for her role in the Spanish Inquisition and the sponsorship of Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage, which led to the discovery of the Americas. Her reign marked the beginning of Spain's rise as a global power and the consolidation of its territories.