Isabella I of Castile

Born into royalty (1451) and then marrying Ferdinand II of Aragon (1469) a unification of Spain took place. Isabella held great power and was a key player in many worldly decisions, including a strong hand in the Spanish Inquisition as well as financing Christopher Columbus 1492 voyage. She helped establish law and order to an unruly Spain with a strong fist. She helped re-establish her countries finances and Isabella helped establish and secure Spain as the global power of Europe and much of the world for almost a hundred years. Obviously this is just the tip of the iceberg for this powerful and influential figure in Western and world history. This painting is attributed to Gerard David.