Isabella I, one of the most renowned queens in Spanish history, reigned with a legendary period. However, behind her success lay some lesser-known faults. This article, focusing on Isabella I's merits and faults, aims to present a comprehensive understanding of the queen's complex life.

I. Merits of Isabella I

1. Unification of the Kingdom of Spain

Under Isabella I's reign, Spain achieved unification for over 300 years. Through skillful marriages and political maneuvers, she weakened the power of feudal lords like Aragon and Castile, making Spain a powerful country.

2. Support for Columbus' Discovery of the New World

Isabella I was one of the main sponsors of Columbus. With her assistance, Columbus obtained the support of the Spanish king and queen and successfully completed his exploration of the New World. This discovery brought immense wealth and territorial expansion to Spain.

3. Promotion of the Spread of the Renaissance in Spain

Isabella I had a profound love for art and culture. She vigorously supported Renaissance artists in the court, such as painter Velázquez and sculptor Bernini. Under her encouragement, Spain became one of the important centers of the European Renaissance.

II. Faults of Isabella I

1. Persecution of Jews

Although Isabella I was relatively tolerant in religious policies, her attitude towards Jews became extreme in her later years. She issued a series of decrees targeting Jews, restricting their property and living rights. These acts led to the exile and death of a large number of Jews, having profound impacts on Spanish society.

2. Luxurious and Wasteful Personal Life

During her reign, Isabella I led an extremely luxurious personal life. Her palace was adorned with expensive artworks and jewels, and her clothes and accessories were exquisite. This wasteful lifestyle depleted the royal treasury, laying a hidden danger for Spain's later decline.

III. Conclusion

Isabella I is a controversial queen. Her reign made Spain a powerful country in Europe and promoted the development of the Renaissance. However, her cruel policies towards Jews in her later years and her luxurious and wasteful personal life also left an inglorious side in history. It is these mixed experiences that make Isabella I an unforgettable historical figure.

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