An extensively illustrated history of a girl with little chance at the throne—who went on to rule for six decades and renew Britain's love for its monarchy. Born fifth in the line of succession, she seemed likely to become a minor figure in history. But a series of premature deaths led to a remarkably long reign for Queen Victoria during one of the most tumultuous and colorful centuries in British history. Victoria embraced the enormous social, political, and industrial changes that were transforming Britain into the most powerful and prestigious country in the world. She was the first monarch to use the railway as a mode of transport, use anesthetic to alleviate the pain of childbirth, and use a telephone. From the very start of her reign, she took an interest in politics, playing an active part in the machinations of government, and worked with ten prime ministers. She broke down barriers between sovereign and subjects, making herself visible to the public. Victoria also established the tradition of the white wedding, wearing a bridal dress that ensured her subjects could see her amid the crowds. These are just a few of the many notable events, both large and small, of her rule. All aspects of Victoria's life from Kensington Palace, her birthplace, to Frogmore Mausoleum, her resting place, are covered in this book filled with photographs, paintings, and images of fascinating artifacts. You'll find illustrations of many of the places and palaces significant in her life—such as the site of the Fox & Crown public house, where the landlord stepped out to halt the horses of Victoria's coach as it was careering out of control, or the point along Constitution Hill where the first assassination attempt was made on Victoria's life. Also displayed are artifacts that epitomize her reign, such as the Penny Black, the world's first pre-paid adhesive postage stamp that, of course, bore her image, and the gold enameled brooch she presented to Florence Nightingale in 1855 for her work in Crimea. Queen Victoria: Her Life and Legacy is a journey in gloriously-colored images through one of Britain's greatest eras—the age of Victoria.
