Queen Elizabeth I was the last monarch of the Tudor dynasty and ruled England from 1558 to 1603. Known as the "Virgin Queen," she never married and was famous for her intelligence and strong leadership. Elizabeth's reign is often called the Elizabethan Era, a time of great cultural flourishing, including the works of playwrights like William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe. During her time as queen, Elizabeth faced many challenges, including threats from Spain and internal conflicts. However, she successfully established England as a powerful nation and promoted exploration, leading to the rise of figures like Sir Francis Drake. Her legacy continues to influence British history and culture today.