Queen Isabella I of Castile

Queen Isabella I of Castile (1451–1504) was a powerful Spanish monarch who, along with her husband Ferdinand, unified Spain through political and military efforts. She is best known for completing the Reconquista—reconquering the Iberian Peninsula from Moorish rule—and sponsoring Christopher Columbus's 1492 voyage, which led to the European discovery of the Americas. Isabella worked to strengthen her kingdom’s central authority, promoted religious unity through the Spanish Inquisition, and supported cultural and educational initiatives, leaving a lasting impact on Spain’s history and global exploration.