Queen Isabella I of Spain, born in 1451, united the Spanish kingdoms revitalized the economy, and funded the 1492 voyage of Christopher Columbus to the Americas. Isabella supported the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition. At her death in 1504, Isabella left a strengthened Spain at the height of its power. She was a driving force behind uniting the Spanish kingdoms through her strong leadership and careful diplomacy. Isabella became known as a decisive queen who transformed Spain into a world power.
