Queen Victoria's Milestones

Queen Victoria was the British monarch who reigned during the Victorian era from 1837 to 1901, overseeing the British Empire's expansion and leaving a lasting legacy on British culture and society.
1819

Birth

Queen Victoria was born Alexandrina Victoria in Kensington Palace, London, to Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, and Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld.

Family May 24, 1819

Baptized

Baptized in the Cupola Room at Kensington Palace.

Family June 24, 1819
1827

Received private education

Received private education under the guidance of her mother and governess Baroness Lehzen.

Education January 1, 1827 - January 1, 1837

Became heir presumptive

Became heir presumptive to the British throne after the death of her father and uncles.

Other January 23, 1827
1837

First Prime Minister

Worked closely with Prime Minister Lord Melbourne during her early reign.

Career June 20, 1837 - August 30, 1841

Became queen

Ascended to the British throne at age 18 after the death of her uncle, King William IV.

Achievement June 20, 1837
1840

Survived assassination attempts

Survived several assassination attempts early in her reign.

Other January 1, 1840 - January 1, 1842

Married Prince Albert

Married Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha; they had nine children.

Relationship February 10, 1840

Birth of first child

Gave birth to her first child, Victoria, Princess Royal.

Family November 21, 1840
1851

Great Exhibition

Presided over the Great Exhibition in London, showcasing British industrial power.

Achievement May 1, 1851 - October 15, 1851
1861

Widowed

Prince Albert died, leaving Victoria in deep mourning for the rest of her life.

Family December 14, 1861
1864

Met John Brown

Developed a close friendship with Scottish servant John Brown.

Relationship January 1, 1864
1876

Empress of India

Proclaimed Empress of India, symbolizing the height of the British Empire.

Achievement May 1, 1876
1887

Golden Jubilee

Celebrated her Golden Jubilee, marking 50 years on the throne.

Achievement June 20, 1887
1897

Diamond Jubilee

Celebrated her Diamond Jubilee, marking 60 years on the throne.

Achievement June 22, 1897
1901

Death

Queen Victoria died at Osborne House, Isle of Wight, after a 63-year reign.

Other January 22, 1901