Their children's marriages and their children united a large portion of European ruling families together through marriage. She loved her children dearly once they arrived, though, and was a devoted mother. Īlbert and Victoria had nine children together, despite the fact that Victoria hated being pregnant and feared childbirth. Following his death from typhoid fever, Victoria went into a 25-year mourning period, noted by her black attire throughout those years. Despite passionately disagreeing on many subjects, they two were wholly devoted to each other and Albert's early death would shape Victoria's image and reign in a way neither would have anticipated. His German heritage made him a difficult adjustment with her subjects, but they eventually accepted him as they saw her love and devotion to him as well as his devotion to their country. Because she was queen, Albert was not permitted to propose to her, so she was the one to do so on October 15th, 1839. Victoria married her cousin, Prince Albert, son of her mother's brother, in 1840. The United Kingdom under Victoria doubled in size, adding Canada, Australia, India, countries in Africa, and in the South Pacific. Queen Victoria's reign oversaw major progress through the United Kingdom, notably the rail system and London Underground, as well as in other areas of science and industry, including the sewer system. The early years of Victoria's reign were influenced by Lord Melbourne, who was the prime minister at the time, and later became a dear friend as well as political adviser. Queen Victoriaĭespite being fifth in line when she was born, Victoria inherited the throne at age 18, after her father's three older brothers had died with no legitimate surviving children. She stood only 4 feet 11 inches tall as an adult. Victoria was known for her feisty character, lively nature, and her short stature.

She also enjoyed drawing and painting, which she did throughout her life. Not long after turning 12, Victoria began a detailed and highly characteristic journal that she kept throughout her life. Prince Edward died when Victoria was only 8 months old, leaving her to be shaped in the care of her mother and governess. Victoria Hanover is a member of the House of Hanover.īorn at Kensington Palace in London, Victoria was the only child of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent and Strathearn, and his wife, Princess Victoria of Saxe-Coburg-Saalfeld, though she had two half-siblings, a half-brother and a half-sister, Feodore.

Queen victoria european family tree