What Really Killed the Virgin Queen: The Death of Elizabeth I

Tudor History with Claire Ridgway

On 24th March 1603, Queen Elizabeth I passed away at the age of 69—but what exactly caused her death? Despite being one of history’s most documented monarchs, the exact cause of Elizabeth’s death remains a mystery. Historians and medical experts have proposed various theories, including: - A deadly tooth abscess—Could an infection have turned septic? - Lead poisoning—Did her makeup slowly poison her? - Pneumonia—She suffered breathing difficulties and fever. - Streptococcus infection—Could an untreated illness have taken her life? - Psychogenic death—Did she literally give up on life? Elizabeth’s final weeks were filled with grief, exhaustion, and refusal of medical treatment. Was she suffering from a fatal illness, or did loneliness and heartbreak cause her slow decline? Join me as I explore the mysteries surrounding Elizabeth’s final days and discuss the most convincing theories. What do you think killed Elizabeth I? #ElizabethI #TudorHistory #TheVirginQueen #Mystery #TudorDynasty #HistoryLovers #RoyalHistory #16thCentury #WhatKilledElizabethI #BritishHistory #TudorMysteries