Queen Maria Christina was a Spanish queen consort, born on April 21, 1858, in Madrid, Spain. She was the daughter of Queen Isabella II and married her cousin, Alfonso XII, in 1879. Maria Christina played a significant role in Spanish politics during her husband's reign and after his death in 1885, serving as regent for their children. After Alfonso XII passed away, Maria Christina became the regent until her son, Alfonso XIII, came of age. She worked to stabilize Spain during a tumultuous period, promoting modernization and social reforms. Maria Christina's influence helped shape the future of the Spanish monarchy.