Queen Elizabeth I of England, often referred to as "the Virgin Queen," reigned from 1558 to 1603. Her rule is noted for the Elizabethan Era, a period marked by English cultural renaissance, the flourishing of arts, and exploration. Elizabeth famously never married, which helped her maintain independence and consolidate power during a time when female rulers faced challenges. Her reign stabilized the nation, following the tumultuous reign of her sister Mary I, and she successfully navigated political and religious conflicts. The defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 further cemented her legacy as a strong and capable leader.