The remarkable reign of Queen Elizabeth I stands out in British history. His reign is one of the longest in British history. Under his rule Britain began to gain strength because his policies laid the foundations on which future rulers could build. Previous rulers of England, such as Queen Mary I, created unrest through their policies which their personal beliefs greatly influenced. Elizabeth I's reign remained relatively stable, and she implemented new political policies that helped strengthen Britain. The reign of Elizabeth I marked a turning point in British history as Britain began its rise to become the current world power. Improvements in politics, economics, military, and foreign affairs along with progress toward religious tolerance made this possible. Turmoil and unstable rulers marked the reigns of King Henry VIII, Edward VII, and Queen Mary I. Henry broke ties with the Catholic Church and had six wives in his lifetime. Britain's removal from the Catholic Church created chaos among its citizens. For several years a religion was followed and suddenly the stability disappeared. Social and economic unrest marked Edward's brief rule. Born weak and sickly, he became king at the age of nine and lived to be fifteen. Because of his age several people ruled in his place, each realizing new ideals. After Edward followed Queen Mary, she earned the nickname Bloody Mary for her policy of publicly executing religious radicals. Over the course of thirty years, Britain fought several wars and faced two rebellions. Compared to previous rulers, Elizabeth I's ability to rule proved more beneficial to Britain (J. Thomas 82). Although many of its critics saw its genre as a negative, Elizabeth I used it for... middle of paper... Beth's Adventurers: Elizabeth I: Maritime History Features: Sea and Ships: Explore Online: RMG . National Maritime Museum, 2013. Web. 04 November 2013.Crompton, Samuel Willard. “'The Storm Clouds of War'.” Queen Elizabeth and England's Golden Age. Philadelphia: Facts On File, Inc., 2005. Modern World History Online. File Web Facts, Inc.. September 16, 2013.Haigh, Christopher. Elizabeth I: profiles in power. Harlow: Longman, 1998. Print "Queen of England Elizabeth I." Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th edition (2013): 1. MASUltra-School Edition. Network. September 16, 2013. Spielvogel, Jackson J. “Western Civilization.” Belmont: Thomson Wadsworth, 2006. Print.Thomas, Heather. “Elizabeth R”. Queen Elizabeth I (1533-1603). Np, 2012.Web. 02 November 2013.Thomas, Jane Resh. Behind the Mask: The Life of Queen Elizabeth I. New York: ClarionBooks, 1998. Print.