Watch Elizabeth I and II: The Golden Queens

Elizabeth I and II: The Golden Queens is a historical documentary series created by BBC Select that explores the lives of two of the most significant female monarchs in British history. The show delves deep into the personal and public lives of Queen Elizabeth I and Queen Elizabeth II, and the impact they had on England and the world.

The series is produced with outstanding visual effects, precise historical details, and expert opinions from award-winning historians and biographers. Through these elements, viewers receive a vivid portrayal of the era, the challenges of powerful women on the throne, and how both queens tackled those challenges.

The series begins with Elizabeth I's reign, which spanned over four decades, from 1558 to 1603. She was formally crowned in 1559, and her reign saw significant wars, the rise of piracy, religious conflicts, and the rise of the British empire. Despite the political and social challenges she faced, Elizabeth I has become an icon of female empowerment and one of England's most competent rulers.

The documentary uses different narratives to explore the life of Elizabeth I, including the social and financial background of England at the time of her reign. It provides viewers with insights into Elizabeth's family background and how it shaped her, and how she learned to navigate politics through her continuous strategic engagements. The series also showcases the way she handled relationships with key figures during her reign, including her conflicting relationship with her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots.

Moving on to Queen Elizabeth II, the series tells the story of the longest reigning British monarch in history, who has been on the throne for over 70 years. The documentary explores Elizabeth's life from her childhood to the present day, detailing how certain events in her life influenced her reign. For instance, the show looks at the challenges she faced during World War II and how it shaped her later life, and her relationships with her family and her husband, Prince Philip.

Viewers also learn about the ambassadorial role Elizabeth II plays in embracing and representing Britain internationally. The show discusses how she has been able to maintain strong ties with the United States, and how her Commonwealth Tour in the early 1950s laid the foundation for the promotion of globalization.

Overall, Elizabeth I and II: The Golden Queens is an excellent series for history buffs and anyone interested in British history. The show provides insightful details on the monarchs, their challenges, and the times they ruled. The series also highlights the challenges that come with being a powerful female leader, which is particularly relevant in today's world.

Elizabeth I and II: The Golden Queens is a series that ran for 1 seasons (2 episodes) between March 9, 2020 and on BBC Select