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Monarchs of Britain
Emma Birrell
Created on March 12, 2024
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Transcript
Monarchs of Great Britain and the United Kingdom
START
(Genially, 2024)
Menu
Learning Objectives
Monarchy Vocabulary
Timeline of British Monarchs
Top Ten Reigning Monarchs
Teacher Support
References and Copyright
back to Start
How to use this resource
The aim of this resource is for you to explore a different monarch on the timeline each day. Find some navigation instructions below:
Extension - Extra information about a certain monarch; links to child friendly resources to be accessed after using this resource. Points for discussion - this will give you a chance to talk to others in your class about your learning. Quizzes - there are wordwall quizzes throughout the presentation for you to test your knowledge and beat your scores. Videos - the videos can be expanded to full screen. Click me - when you see an image with 'click me' beside it, this will enlarge the image to full screen.
These icons will take you to a mini pop-up window when clicked.
This icon will take you to another website away from the presentation.
This icon will play a sound recording when clicked, it will also have an audio transcript for you to select and read if you prefer.
Menu
British Monarchy Vocabulary List
audio transcript
select the word you would like to explore:
Commonwealth
Heir
Reign
Legacy
Empire
Coronation
Parliament
Succession
Jubilee
Democracy
Challenge Yourself: Test your vocabulary skills - see how many words you can match to their definitions!
Government
Monarch
Menu
Here you will find lots of information about SOME of Britain's monarchs. Select a picture to discover all about these infamous kings and queens.
1952 - 2022
1509 - 1547
1660 -1685
1837 - 1901
1066 - 1087
1558 - 1603
Menu
King William I
King William I
The Battle of Hastings
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
audio transcript
King William I
William the Conqueror
Coronation
Death
Birth
25 December 1066 - Westminster Abbey, England
9 September 1087 - Normandy, Northern France
c. 1028 - Normandy, Northern France
View Profile
WILLIAM'S MENU
audio transcript
The Battle of Hastings
Dive into the video below to unravel the epic clash for the English throne, where Harold and William make their claims to kingship, revealing their strategies for victory in the battle!
Click me
Get ready to uncover a hidden treasure from history; Harold's fate will be revealed:
audio transcript
WILLIAM'S MENU
William's Legacy
WILLIAM'S MENU
William the Conqueror Quiz
Points for discussion:
WILLIAM'S MENU
Extension - more resources for William I
Follow this link for more information on the motte and bailey castle:
Find more about the Battle of Hastings here:
Britannica kids
Ducksters
BBC Bitesize
Challenge - Complete the following worksheet and share it to your Showbie account when finished:
WILLIAM'S MENU
Henry VIII
King Henry VIII
Henry's Wives
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
King Henry VIII
audio transcript
Birth 28 June 1491 - Greenwich, London, England
Coronation 24 June 1509 - Westminster Abbey, England
Death 28 January 1547 - Westminster, England
View Profile
HENRY'S MENU
The Six Wives of Henry VIII
(Yes, you read that right, he had SIX wives!)
audio transcript
This rhyme will help you remember the fate of Henry's wives:
Get ready for a royal rollercoaster ride through Henry VIII's love life - where 'till death do us part' took on a whole new meaning with not one, not two, but six wives!:
Click me:
HENRY'S MENU
Henry VIII's legacy
HENRY'S MENU
Henry VIII quiz
Points for discussion:
HENRY'S MENU
Extension - more resources for Henry VIII
Find more about Henry's Wives here:
Britannica kids
Ducksters
Fun Kids Live
BBC Bitesize
Challenge - Have a go at the activities on this website, screenshot and upload your answers to Showbie:
HENRY'S MENU
Elizabeth I
Queen Elizabeth I
The Spanish Armada
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
Queen Elizabeth I
audio transcript
Birth September 7 1533 - Greenwich, England
Coronation 15 January 1559 - Westmister Abbey, England
Death March 24, 1603 -Richmond, England
View Profile
elizabeth'S MENU
The Spanish Armada
Get ready for the epic tale of the Spanish Armada - a maritime adventure filled with dramatic battles, dastardly plans, and perhaps a few mishaps along the way:
Why did the battle start?:
What do you think Elizabeth I meant in her speech to the troops in 1588:
audio transcript
Have a sing along to this song about the Spanish Armada:
elizabeth'S MENU
Elizabeth I's legacy
elizabeth'S MENU
Elizabeth I crossword
Points for discussion:
elizabeth'S MENU
Extension - more resources for Elizabeth I
Find more about the Spanish Armada here:
Britannica kids
BBC Bitesize
Nat Geo Kids
Ducksters
Challenge - Have a look at this comic strip of Elizabeth's life. Could you draw more sections for her legacies? Upload your pictures to Showbie. Click me:
elizabeth'S MENU
Charles II
King Charles II
The Great Fire of London
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
King Charles II
- Cromwellian Rule
Birth 29 May 1630 - St. James' Palace, Westminster, England
Coronation 23 April 1661 - Westminster Abbey, England
Death 6 February 1685 - Whitehall Palace Westminster, England
View Profile
charles' menu
Plague and Fire
The Great Fire of London
The Black Death 1665 - 1666
audio transcript
charles' menu
Charles II's legacy
charles' menu
King Charles Cloze Activity
Points for discussion:
charles' menu
Extension - more resources for Charles II
Find more about the Great Plague of 1665 - 1666 here:
Twinkl
Find more information about the Great Fire of London here:
Britannica kids
Beano.com
Challenge - Find some more information about life under Cromwellian Rule here. Have a go at the quizzes on the page, screenshot them and upload to Showbie:
charles' menu
Victoria
Queen Victoria
The British Empire
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
Queen Victoria
Birth 24 May 1819- Kensington Palace, London, England
Coronation 28 June 1838 - Westminster Abbey, England
Death 22 January 1901 - Osborne House, Isle of Wight, England
View Profile
victoria's menu
The British Empire
During Victoria's reign, the British Empire expanded to cover territories across the globe. This period was marked by great advancements in transportation and communication, which helped Britain establish its control. The empire's growth made Britain incredibly powerful and influential on the world stage.
Was the British Empire Good or Bad?:
Click me:
Which countries do you recognise as part of the Empire? Perhaps an atlas will help.
audio transcript
victoria's menu
victoria's menu
Queen Victoria Quiz
Points for Discussion:
victoria's menu
Extension - more resources for Victoria
Find more about the British Empire here:
Nat Geo Kids
Britannica kids
Ducksters
BBC Bitesize
Challenge - Can you think of 5 questions you would like to ask Victoria? Perhaps you could hot seat a friend or even your teacher in the role of Queen Victoria!
victoria's menu
Elizabeth II
Queen Elizabeth II
Longest Reigning Monarch
Legacy
Quiz
Extension
TIMELINE
Queen Elizabeth II
Coronation
Death
Birth
2 June 1953 - Westminster Abbey, England
8 September 2022 - Balmoral Castle, Scotland
21 April 1926 - London, England
View Profile
elizabeth II Menu
Britain's Longest Reigning Monarch
70 years as Queen!
Queen Elizabeth II's four jubilees - Silver (1977), Golden (2002), Diamond (2012), and Platinum (2022)—marked her 25th, 50th, 60th, and 70th years on the throne. Each jubilee featured nationwide celebrations, including public events, tours, and services of thanksgiving.
audio transcript
Key events throughout Queen Elizabeth II's reign:
elizabeth II Menu
Elizabeth II's legacy
elizabeth II Menu
Elizabeth II Quiz
Points for Discussion:
elizabeth II Menu
Extension - more resources for Elizabeth II
Nat Geo Kids
Britannica kids
Ducksters
Kiddle
BBC Bitesize
Challenge - Can you create a profile for another British Monarch using Book Creator? Share with your class mates and upload to your showbie. Here are some ideas:
- Mary I (Elizabeth I's sister)
- Richard III
- George V
- Edward III
elizabeth II Menu
Menu
Support for teachers
Overview
Curriculum Links
Implementation
Troubleshooting
If you would like to be added as a collaborater to add your own material to the resource, please email the following link:
Additional Resources
Feedback
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Overview
This interactive educational resource has been designed to take students on a journey through the fascinating history of British monarchs. Created using Genially, a versatile digital tool, this resource offers a dynamic and multimedia-rich learning experience that caters to the diverse needs of students.Key Features:
- Interactive Timeline: Explore the chronological succession of British monarchs from 1066 to the present day. The timeline is designed with cognitive load theory in mind, presenting information in manageable chunks to facilitate understanding and retention.
- Multimedia Content: Immerse students in history with embedded videos, links and audio clips, bringing key moments to life.
- Interactive Games: Reinforce learning and test knowledge with embedded games and quizzes. Designed to be fun and educational, these interactive activities offer students opportunities to apply what they've learned in an engaging format.
- Manageable Information: Break down complex historical concepts into digestible segments, making it easier for children to grasp and retain information. Each section is carefully crafted to strike a balance between depth of content and cognitive load, ensuring optimal learning outcomes.
- Accessibility Features: Consideration is given to accessibility, with features such as clear navigation and user-friendly design.
Support
National Curriculum Requirements
Expand the document to view how this resource meets the National Curriculum KS2 Aims:
Support
Implementation
Implementing the "Monarchs of Britain" interactive resource involves a structured approach that supports teacher-led sessions while also allowing for independent exploration by students. Here are some suggested implementation methods:
Independent Exploration:
- Provide opportunities for students to independently explore the resource during class time or as part of homework assignments.
- Allow students to choose areas of interest within the timeline to explore at their own pace, promoting autonomy and self-directed learning.
- Monitor students' progress and offer support as needed while respecting their independence.
Self-Assessment and Learning:
- The interactive quizzes embedded within the resource serve as valuable tools for self-assessment and learning reinforcement.
- Encourage students to utilise the quizzes as a means to gauge their understanding of key concepts and historical events.
- Emphasise that the quizzes are designed to support learning by providing immediate feedback and identifying areas for further review.
- Encourage students to revisit sections of the resource and engage with the quizzes multiple times to reinforce their understanding and retention of the material.
Teacher-Led Sessions:
- Integrate the resource into teacher-led history lessons by selecting relevant sections to complement the curriculum topics.
- Facilitate discussions around the discussion points within the resource.
- Encourage active participation and critical thinking by prompting students to analyse and discuss the information presented.
Support
Reference List and Copyright
Copyright - © 2024. This work is openly licensed via CC BY-NC This license enables reusers to distribute, remix, adapt, and build upon the material in any medium or format for noncommercial purposes only, and only so long as attribution is given to the creator. CC BY-NC includes the following elements: BY: credit must be given to the creator. NC: Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted. References Here you will find a list of references for all content used within the presentation - all images, videos, information and resources used are referenced according to copyright laws:
CC BY-NC 4.0 DEED
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Legacy The special mark monarchs leave on their country, that people remember them for - like important buildings, laws, or traditions. Example: King James I's legacy includes the union of the English and Scottish crowns.
The biggest tantrum in history led to the reformation of the church
Henry grew tired of waiting for a male heir from Catherine of Aragon. He decided he wanted a divorce so he could marry Anne Boleyn, but this clashed with the Catholic Church's view of marriage. Henry did not like being told 'no', so he renounced the Catholic Church and made himself the head of a new church - The Church of England.
audio transcript
Religious Tolerance
Remember how Henry VIII created his own church and renounced the Catholic church? Well, the Religious Settlement of 1559 was a compromise between Catholic and Protestant practices in England - Elizabeth wanted people to be able to practice their own religion without being punished. This brought stability to the country, shaping the future of England's development in rights and freedom.
Who was Elizabeth II?
Name: Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor Family: spouse - Prince Philip; Children: x4 including our current king, King Charles III Likes: spending time with family; horseback riding; meeting people from different cultures Dislikes: being away from her beloved corgis Personality: calm, composed, dedicated Fashion: elegant dresses and suits; pearls and brooches Hobbies and interests: Horse racing and breeding; patronage of various charities and organisations; watching wildlife and nature documentaries
Queen Elizabeth I is so famous she had an era named after her - the Elizabethan Era. This period was marked by the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 and the flourishing of English drama. She also encouraged exploration, leading to the establishment of English colonies in the New World.
No legitimate heir
Charles II had many children, but not one of them was recognised by the country as legimate heirs as they were not born to his wife! King Charles II was succeeded by his younger brother King James II.
A strong line of succession
Just like her Great-Great Grandmother, Queen Victoria had, Queen Elizabeth II has left behind a strong family tree of heirs to the British Throne - her son is now King Charles III, and her Grandson, William, and Great-Grandson, George are the next in line after him.
audio transcript
The end of a dynasty...
Queen Elizabeth I, who had reigned for 45 years, died after a short illness at the age of 69. Following her passing, James VI of Scotland succeeded her, becoming James I of England, marking the end of the Tudor era and the beginning of the Stuart dynasty.
audio transcript
Norman Architecture
One of the most famous buildings commissioned by William I is none other than the Tower of London! The Normans were also responsible for motte and bailey castles: a keep which is built on top of a raised area called the 'motte'. The 'bailey' is a walled courtyard which is situated next to the motte.
Engage critically with primary and secondary sources to deepen knowledge and develop historical literacy skills.
Demonstrate an understanding of the key historical figures and events associated with the monarchy.
Analyse the impact of each monarch's reign on British history and society.
How did Henry Tudor, the second son of Henry VII become king?
Henry VIII was the third child, and second son born to King Henry VII and his wife, Elizabeth of York. Unfortunately, his elder brother Arthur died due to a mysterious illness leaving Henry directly in the line of succession to the throne!
Henry VII
Parliament A group of people who work for the government, they make and change laws for a country. Example: The British Parliament is located in the Palace of Westminster in London, England.
Who was Henry VIII?
Name: King Henry VIII Family: wives x6; 1 son, 2 daughters Likes: hunting; feasting; music; sports - jousting, archery, wrestling Dislikes: waiting; disloyalty Personality: charasmatic; impulsive; determined Fashion: extravagant; luxurious fabrics; embroidered robes; elaborate hats; jewels. Hobbies and interests: Renaissance art and music; religion; languages such as Latin
Troubleshooting
If you are experiencing difficulties with the resource, please email the following link, or follow the link to the Genially troubleshooting guides:
Succession The order in which the throne passes from one monarch to the next. Example: Prince William is next in the line of succession to the throne.
Henry's Wives
In merry old England, long ago Lived a king named Henry, don't you know? Six wives he had, a tale to unfold Each with a story both brave and bold Catherine of Aragon, his first Queen fair But no son was born, it was hard to bare Anne Boleyn came with a daughter's grace But lost her head in a tragic disgrace Jane Seymour next, a son she bore But her life was short, nevermore Anne of Cleves, a queen not to please Henry divorced her with relative ease Catherine Howard, so young and bright But her love for another brought her plight Catherine Parr, the final wife true Outlived the king (phew!) Six wives, Six tales in Henry's reign A saga of love, loss and pain Their lives intertwined with history's threads Henry's six wives, forever wed
When did Henry become king?
At 17, Henry VIII went from teenager to king overnight when his father died on 21 April 1509. Two months later, on 23 June 1509, newlywed Henry was coronated alongside his first wife Catherine of Aragon.
Golden Age of Creativity
Elizabeth's support of writers and playwrights contributed to a golden age of English literature. Under her reign, London became a center of cultural activity - William Shakespeare benefitted greatly from Elizabeth's love of theater. His plays such as 'Romeo and Juliet' continue to be celebrated as masterpieces of world literature today.
audio transcript
Poor Relief Act 1601
When her father pulled down the monastaries during the Reformation, he also destroyed a source of charity for many. Elizabeth enacted the Poor Relief Act which ensured taxes were collected in order to support those who could not work (such as the elderly and sick). This law influenced attitudes towards poverty and welfare for centuries to come.
Henry's death.
Although fit, healthy and handsome in his youth, Henry VIII deteriorated very quickly in his later years due to a jousting accident, obesity and lifestyle. He was succeeded by his son, Edward VI, from his third marriage to Jane Seymour.
The Grandmother of Europe...
Queen Victoria earned the nickname "Grandmother of Europe" because many of her nine children married into various European royal families. By the time of her death, Victoria had numerous grandchildren who occupied thrones in countries such as Germany, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Romania, Greece, and Spain, earning her the affectionate nickname "Grandmother of Europe."
audio transcript
Empire An empire is a large group of lands and peoples ruled by one leader. Example: The Roman Empire once spanned across vast territories in Europe, Africa and the Middle East.
Heir A person who is entitled to inherit the throne after the current monarch. Example: As the eldest son of King Charles III, Prince William is the heir to the British throne.
Head of the Commonwealth
The Commonwealth of Nations was established in 1949, and when Elizabeth ascended the throne, only 8 countries were a part of it. Today, 56 countries, and almost a third of the world's population, are a member! Queen Elizabeth was the Head of the Commonwealth, which was mainly made up of former territories of the British Empire. The Commonwealth means that all countries are equal, and no longer under Britain's rule.
Some key events throughout Elizabeth II's reign
First tour of the Commonwealth 1953
Princess Diana's death 1997
Falklands War 1982
Hong Kong's independence 1997
Prince Phillip's death 2021
Covid-19 pandemic 2020
Language and Culture
The Normans had a great influence on England after the invasion. Norman French gradually mixed into the old English language of the time, eventually evolving into the modern English we speak today! Norman culture including architecture, cuisine and the structure of the church also left a lasting mark on England.
The beginning of a Golden Era.
Elizabeth I became queen as her sister Queen Mary I died childless - without a direct heir. Elizabeth's claim to the throne was supported by her royal lineage as the daughter of King Henry VIII, and her popularity amongst the English people helped her to secure the throne.
Another Queen who wasn't meant to be Queen!
Queen Elizabeth II became queen following the death of her father, King George VI in February 1952.Her father was never meant to be king, he ascended the throne after his brother, King Edward VIII, abdicated (gave up the throne) in 1936! Elizabeth's coronation marked the beginning of a 70 years and 214 day reign.
Queen Elizabeth on her coronation day in 1953.
Cromwellian Rule
After the execution of Charles I, Cromwell became the leader of England. He got rid of the monarchy and ruled the country as Lord Protector with strictness and seriousness. He didn't like things like parties, theater, or celebrations because he thought they were unnecessary. Instead, he wanted everyone to focus on being good and following strict rules.
The Royal Navy
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Due to threats from countries such as France and Spain, Henry recognised the strategic importance of having a strong naval force. Henry commissioned a fleet of warships and established the Royal Navy. Dockyards were also established to help maintain the ships, including Portsmouth which is still the home of the Royal Navy today! Henry's efforts laid the foundation for England's later dominance of the seas.
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audio transcript
Discussion Time
How did Elizabeth I's leadership style differ from that of other monarchs? Do you think Elizabeth I's decision not to marry was a good one? Why or why not? What were some of the challenges Elizabeth faced as queen, being a woman in a position of power?
Born into a tense period for England
Charles II was the eldest son of Charles I. Unfortunately, Charles was born into a tense period in English history, as his father's reign was marked by turmoil that would eventually lead to the outbreak of the English Civil War. After his father's defeat and execution by Oliver Cromwell in 1649, France offered him a safe place as he sought to gather allies and resources to eventually reclaim the English throne. French culture had a huge influence on him.
Elizabeth's Birth
Queen Elizabeth II was the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, who later became King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (The Queen Mother). Elizabeth was born during a period of significant change in Britain, as the country was still recovering from the aftermath of World War I. Her birth was a moment of joy and hope for the royal family and the nation.
The Domesday Book
William liked to know exactly who lived on his lands and where - he ordered the creation of a book which kept records of land and property ownership in England; this became known as the Domesday Book. Did you know? - the word 'doom' used to mean 'law' and 'judgement' back in the medieval period of William I.
Divorced, Beheaded, Died. Divorced, Beheaded, Survived.
The Bayeux Tapestry is like a historical comic strip that unfolds the drama of a legendary battle. One part of the tapestry shows a soldier removing an arrow from his eye, some think this is Harold. However, some historians aren't entirely convinced if it's truly Harold or someone else. Some say Harold was shot by an arrow, whilst others claim he was dismembered by 4 French knights, which could be depicted in the seocnd picture. What do you think?
Feudal System
king
William rewarded his loyal nobles with land after the invasion of England; each noble swore loyalty and provided military service to their new king. This system of feudalism created a clear hierarchy within medieval society - from king to peasants.
nobles
knights
peasants
The Bayeux Tapestry
A medieval tapestry which depicts the Norman Invasion of England - a primary source of information.
audio transcript
Coronation The ceremony in which a monarch is formally crowned. Example: The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II took place in 1953, marking the beginning of her reign as the monarch of the United Kingdom.
Restoration Court
As many monarchs before him had, Charles II supported the arts. He played a huge part in restoring the arts after the strict rule of Cromwell, creating a vibrant culture scene known as 'The Restoration Court'. He commissioned several works of art which helped to promote the talents of English artists.
Who was Elizabeth?
Name: Elizabeth I Family: Unmarried; No children Likes: politics; fashion; music; literature Dislikes: war; marriage (she saw herself as being married to England) Personality: strong-willed; diplomatic; intelligent Fashion: pearls; jewellery; embroidered dresses Hobbies and interests: theater; music; dancing; exploration
The Age of Exploration
Elizabeth encouraged exploration during her reign; English explorers like Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh embarked on voyages to discover new lands and trade routes. Some of these explorers travelled to places like North America, hoping to colonise and trade. This set the stage for the growth of the British Empire, and helped to support advancements in world maps and navigation.
God blew and they were scattered...
The Spanish Armada began in 1588 because Catholic King Philip II of Spain didn't like that Queen Elizabeth supported Protestantism, and her execution of the Catholic Queen of Scotland tested his patience to the limit. Unfortunately for Philip, Sir Francis Drake and the English fleet were ready to defend England with their faster ships and clever tactics. Horrendous weather finished off the Armada in what the English called' an act of God'.
audio transcript
The Great Plague
Rats carrying fleas, attracted to London's streets filled with waste, spread the disease rapidly, leading to 15% of the population dying! After Charles fled to Oxford, the Lord Mayor stayed in London to make sure everyone followed the king's rules and tried to stop the sickness from spreading. The survivors of the Great Plague in 1666 could never have imagined the looming threat which would change their city forever...
audio transcript
Discussion Time
In what ways did Queen Elizabeth II become a cultural icon, and what impact did this have on the British monarchy's image worldwide? Why is public service important for members of the royal family, and how did Queen Elizabeth II exemplify this value? What is your most prominent memory of Queen Elizabeth II?
The biggest tantrum in history led to the reformation of the church
After 24 years of mariage, Henry grew tired of waiting for a male heir from Catherine of Aragon. He decided he wanted to divorce Catherine so he could marry Anne Boleyn, but this clashed with the Catholic Church's view of marriage. Henry was not used to being told 'no', so he renounced the Catholic Church and made himself the head of a new church - The Church of England. English replaced Latin as the language of the church and many monastaries were pulled down.
Fun Fact - The monarch of the United Kingdom today still holds the title 'Defender of the Faith and Supreme Governor of the Church of England'.
The Restoration
After Cromwell's death the English people wanted to bring back the monarchy. Charles II returned from exile and was restored as King of England, Scotland and Ireland - this became known as 'The Restoration'. New regalia (the special items or symbols associated with royalty such as the crown) had to be made because Cromwell melted his father's crown after his execution!
Click me:
A New London...
Despite efforts to put out the fire, it raged on for days, destroying much of the city. There were rumours that King Charles II helped with the firefighting efforts. Apparently, he ordered the demolition of buildings to create firebreaks, but it wasn't enough to stop the fire from spreading.
The red area is all that was affected or destroyed during the Great Fire of 1666. Can you spot any famous landmarks that may have been damaged or nearly affected?
King Charles II responded to the Great Plague of 1665 by enforcing quarantine, sealing infected homes, and ordering mass burials. The plague ended as colder weather reduced the spread of the disease, and the Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed many of the rat-infested areas.
Government The system or group of people responsible for managing a country or state. Example: When we need help, like during natural disasters, the government is there to support us.
Commonwealth A group of countries that work together and help each other, often because they used to be part of the same empire. Example: The Commonwealth is 56 countries, including Canada, and India, united by shared values and goals.
How long did King William I reign for?
King William the Conqueror ruled for 20 years and 258 days! Fun Fact: King William I was the first monarch to be coronated in Westminster Abbey, London!
Elizabeth's speech to the troops
This speech was made the the land troops Elizabeth I had ready to face the Spanish incase they were successful at sea -
"I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman; but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and of a king of England too, and think foul scorn that Parma or Spain, or any prince of Europe, should dare to invade the borders of my realm: to which rather than any dishonour shall grow by me, I myself will take up arms, I myself will be your general, judge, and rewarder of every one of your virtues in the field." Elizabeth I, 1588.
The Royal Navy
Due to threats from countries such as France and Spain, Henry recognised the strategic importance of having a strong naval force to protect England. Henry commissioned a fleet of warships and established the Royal Navy. Dockyards were also established to help build and maintain the ships, including Portsmouth which is still the home of the Royal Navy to this day! Henry's efforts laid the foundation for England's later dominance of the seas.
The vocabulary list shows all the words you will be learning about in the resource. It helps you get ready and understand what you'll be exploring.
Reign The period of time during which a monarch rules. Example: Queen Elizabeth II has had the longest reign of any British monarch
Alexandrina
Christened as Alexandrina Victoria, she was known within the family as 'Drina'. Prior to her birth, there had been a succession crisis due to the lack of legitimate heirs among King George III's (her grandad) sons. Victoria's birth brought relief to many within the royal family as it provided a clear successor to the throne. Sadly, her father, Prince Edward, passed away when she was just eight months old.
A portrait of Victoria as a child with her mother.
Public Service
Elizabeth II's dedication to public service set a standard for the royal family, setting high expectations for their service and behaviour. Her focus was mainly on charitable work, community engagement, and support for various causes such as education, healthcare, and the environment.
audio transcript
Monarch The king or queen who rules a kingdom. Example: The monarch waved to the crowd from the palace balcony.
Who was William II's successor?
King William I was succeeded by his son, William II. William II was also known as Rufus the Red (due to his bright red hair!)
Trailblazer or Tyrant?
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Henry's reign was also marked by a series of ruthless acts. Harsh treatment of opponents, including executing several of his wives and key advisors, have cemented his image as a king who ruled with an iron fist. Additionally, pursuit of military glory led to costly wars which drained English resources. Despite his accomplishments, Henry's legacy is often overshadowed by the brutality of his reign.
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The end of an era...
Queen Victoria's death marked the end of a remarkable reign that spanned over six decades. Passing away at the age of 81, her death brought great sorrow. As the longest-reigning monarch in British history up to that point, Queen Victoria's passing signified the end of the Hanover reign and the beginning of the House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha.
Henry VIII is best known for his six marriages and his role in establishing the Church of England, breaking away from the Roman Catholic Church. His actions had profound effects on England's religious and political landscape, shaping the course of its history.
William, with his Norman army invaded England, landing at Pevensey Bay. The decisive battle took place on October 14th 1066 at Hastings. In this iconic battle, Harold Godwinson's English army faced William's Norman army. The battle ended in Harold's death and victory for William - forever changing the course of English history.
The Tudor Trio
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All three of Henry's children ascended to the English throne. From Edward VI, the boy king whose reign was cut tragically short, to the fiery Queen Mary I, who sought to restore Catholicism, and finally to the iconic Queen Elizabeth I, whose reign ushered in England's Golden Age.
Jubilee A grand celebration of a Monarch's reign - to mark a milestone in their time as ruler. Example: Queen Elizabeth marked her Platium jubilee (70 years on the throne) in 2022.
Modernisation of the Monarchy
Queen Elizabeth II oversaw the modernisation of the British monarchy. This included embracing technology, such as the first televised Christmas broadcast in 1957 (in the picture) and the use of social media in her later years.
Discussion Time
Do you think it was fair for William to take land away from English nobles and give it to his supporters? Why or why not?If you could ask William one question about his life or reign, what would it be and why? Do you think William should be remembered as a hero or a villain in history? Why?
Nullius in verba - take nobody's word for it
Charles was huge advocate for scientific discovery, so much so that he supported a group of scientists (including Sir Isaac Newton) when they formed an organisation called 'The Royal Society of London for Improving Natural Knowledge' (AKA The Royal Society). This organsiation has be responsible for some of the biggest scientific advancements in history.
audio transcript
Discussion Time
How did Queen Victoria's decisions and actions, such as supporting the expansion of the British Empire, impact the lives of people in both Britain and the colonised countries? Why do you think Queen Victoria's choice to wear a white wedding dress became such a lasting tradition, and how do you think fashion trends from famous people influence our choices today? Queen Victoria reigned for over 60 years, and she saw many changes. What do you think are some of the most important qualities a leader needs to guide a country through times of change, and why?
Queen Elizabeth II was queen for a very long time—70 years! She became queen in 1952 and ruled until 2022, making her the longest-reigning British monarch ever. During her time as queen, she saw many important changes in the world, like the end of the British Empire and the rise of new technology. She was loved for her dedication and always worked hard to serve her country.
Who was William?
Name: William the Conqueror; William I Family: wife - Matilda of Flanders; 4 sons, 5 daughters Likes: feasting, horse riding; conquest Dislikes: rebellion; failure Personality: determined, authoritative, strategic Fashion: chainmail armour; Norman helmet; jewels Hobbies and interests: birds of prey; architecture
New building regulations
After the fire, Charles played a big role in rebuilding London. Along with Sir Christopher Wren, he introduced new rules about how buildings should be constructed to prevent another disaster such as this from happening:
- brick or stone was to be used for buildings
- flammable material was to be restricted
- wider streets and more open spaces
- guidelines for layouts to prevent fire spreading
Can you decipher this announcement of the Rebuilding Act 1667?:
Click me:
Discussion Time
Why do you think some people refer to the period of King Charles II's rule as the "Restoration" period? How did King Charles II's actions impact the lives of people living in England during his reign? How might the response to the Great Plague of London during King Charles II's reign have been different if modern medical knowledge and technology were available at the time?
The Tudor Trio
All three of Henry's children ascended to the English throne. From Edward VI, the boy king whose reign was cut tragically short, to the fiery Queen Mary I, who sought to restore Catholicism, and finally to the iconic Queen Elizabeth I, whose reign ushered in England's Golden Age. Tragically, none of Henry's children prodcued an heir, bringing an end to the Tudor dynasty after Elizabeth's death.
Victoria and Albert's influence on today's traditions
audio transcript
It's not a boy...
Queen Elizabeth I was born at Greenwich Palace to King Henry VIII and his second wife, Anne Boleyn. Sadly, her mother was executed when she was two years old, and her father had her declared illegitimate - not recognised by law as offspring.
Who was Victoria?
Name: Queen Victoria Family: Married Prince Albert; 9 children, including King Edward VII Likes: Reading, horseback riding, painting, music Dislikes: Political interference, social unrest Personality: Strong-willed, determined, conservative Fashion: Mourning attire after Prince Albert's death; later known for her iconic black dresses Hobbies and interests: Collecting art and antiques, writing in her journal, spending time with her family and pets
What does 'c.' mean?
C. stands for Circa
Circa is a Latin word which translates to 'around' or 'about'. The word 'circa' or abbreviation 'c.' is used in front of the date and indicates that it is an approximate date of when an event has taken place. Example: William the Conqueror was born circa 1028.
Who was Charles II?
Name: King Charles II AKA The Merry Monarch Family: Wife - Catherine of Braganza Likes: Theater; gambling; horse racing; naval exploration Dislikes: Cromwellian rule; religious unrest; schemes and plots Personality: Charming; adventurous; clever; sometimes impulsive Fashion: Flamboyant; lace cuffs and collars; velvet coats; elaborate wigs Hobbies and interests: Patron of the arts; patronage of scientists and philosophers; involvement in the Royal Society (a scientific organisation)
Contact Details
Please feel free to email me any feedback or suggestions you have regarding the resources provided Emma Birrell
A time of invention...
Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, were important figures during the Industrial Revolution. They were interested in new inventions and how they could help improve society. Prince Albert organised the Great Exhibition in 1851, held in a huge glass building called the Crystal Palace. This exhibition showcased the latest inventions and technologies from around the world and was a big success.
The Industrial Revolution
Factories were built to make goods like clothes and tools much faster than before. Steam engines powered trains and ships, making it easier to travel and trade goods across the world. The Victorian Era saw the growth of cities, as many people moved from the countryside to work in factories. It was an exciting time with lots of new technology, but it also meant hard work for many people, including children!
Peace and Parties
After many years of turmoil with the Civil War and Cromwell's rule, Charles II brought peace to the country (do you see a theme here?) The people loved him - he did bring back partying after all!
Victoria and Albert were abolitionists - which meant they supported the end of slavery. Victoria had the Royal Navy go to Africa in an effort to stop illegal slave trading.
King William I, also known as William the Conqueror is most well known for the Norman invasion of England in 1066. Here he defeated Harold II at the Battle of Hastings.
A day to remember...
Elizabeth II is the only monarch on this timeline that any of us will have known other than her son and successor King Charles III. Her legacy as the longest-reigning monarch in British history and her contributions to the Commonwealth and global diplomacy will be remembered for generations to come.
Discussion Time
Click me:
What do you think the message of this painting of Henry, his chidren and Jane Seymour is? If you could ask Henry VIII one question about his life or reign, what would it be and why? Do you think Henry VIII was a good leader? Why or why not?
The daughter of the fourth son
Queen Victoria's father was the fourth son of King George III, and Victoria was not initially expected to inherit the throne. However, the deaths of her father's older brothers without legitimate heirs ultimately lead to Victoria's position as the future queen. At just 18, she ascended the throne after the death of her uncle William IV.
Victoria's coronation portrait.
Additional Resources and Links for Teachers
Links for professional development of topic knowledge
https://www.royal.uk/kings-and-queens-1066
https://www.npg.org.uk/collections/explore/kings-and-queens-a-family-tree
https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/kings-and-queens-of-Britain-at-a-glance/609019
Links for wordwall resources used within the resource - can be checked for assessment
https://wordwall.net/resource/73296304/charles-ii-cloze
https://wordwall.net/resource/67684422/william-i-the-conqueror
https://wordwall.net/resource/72513843/elizabeth-i-crossword
https://wordwall.net/resource/70004609/monarchy-vocab
https://wordwall.net/resource/53716284/how-much-do-you-know-about-henry-viii
https://wordwall.net/resource/9179045/history/queen-victoria-quiz-ks1-years2
https://wordwall.net/resource/35946808/english/копія-queen-elizabeth-ii
Armada Song - https://suno.com/song/47dbffe6-9747-496d-aa80-f9bc70ac2f8b