The Golden Age: Elizabeth's I Reign

Discover the incredible strength and strategy of a queen who faced an armada in armor and emerged as a beacon of leadership. Queen Elizabeth I's tale is a profound lesson in harnessing the power of resilience and diplomacy. As we close out our first season, our narrative stitches together the rich tapestry of Elizabeth's life, from her contentious rise to the throne during England's religious and political upheaval, to her masterful reign that steered England towards an era of prosperity and global influence.

Join us for a captivating look at the Virgin Queen's moderate Protestant stance that shaped the Elizabethan Religious Settlement, her unparalleled diplomatic acumen amidst a chess game of international politics, and the golden age she heralded for Britain. Our special guests bring their unique perspectives to the table, enriching our understanding of Elizabeth's legacy and its resonating echoes in the shaping of national identities and governance across the world.

As we bid farewell to a season of exploring transformative leaders and their indelible marks on history, we reflect on the art of leadership and the cultural identity that Elizabeth I so deftly crafted. Her twilight years, marked by economic and succession struggles, offer timeless insights into the complexities of ruling. With gratitude for your companionship on this historical odyssey, we promise an upcoming season brimming with more stories that unravel the DNA of nations, revealing the interconnectedness of our shared past and future.


Like, Share, and Follow, Wherever you get your podcasts!

Twitter: @HistoryHelix
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555887287253
Instagram: History_Helix
Email: DoubleHelixHistorypodcast@gmail.com

Chapters

• 0:01 The Reign of Queen Elizabeth I
• 10:41 Queen Elizabeth I
• 29:09 Elizabeth I
• 37:23 Unraveling Nations

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:01

Before we begin the episode, I just wanted to first of all thank those of you who have stuck with the podcast, who continue to come back to learn a little bit more about what makes nations tick, and so the podcast hasn't been as consistent as I wanted it to be in terms of the release schedule. But, as you guys know, sometimes you think you can juggle a lot of different balls and then you drop a couple. So do have a lot of things going on, but try my best to keep up with the podcast. It is a labor of love. At this point I do it because I enjoy it, because I think there is a lot to learn from history, a lot to learn about nations, and ultimately helps us figure out why our world works the way it does, as it does today. And if you read the news at all, you know that we live in a very tumultuous, very conflicted, very difficult and complex world, and so I believe in what I'm doing here, but just wanted to give you that quick update. Apologize in advance, but without further ado, here's the rest of the episode on the Golden Age, the reign of Elizabeth I.

Speaker 1: 1:22

A blustery summer morning at dawn, on the banks of the Thames at Tilbury, it is August 9th 1588. The grandest fleet of warships that had been assembled since the time of the Romans was bearing down on Britain. A combination of the weather and naval ingenuity has defeated it, but the troops assembled here did not yet know it. The infamous Spanish Armada was making its way to put to bed any challenges to the power of the Spanish Empire from the upstart English. A defining moment in British history was unfolding. At Tilbury, perched on the bank of the Thames, stood a figure emblematic of resolve and unmatched leadership Queen Elizabeth I. With her kingdom teetering on the brink of invasion and her people in snare and uncertainty, elizabeth undertook a bold action that was rare among monarchs of her era. She rode out to meet her troops, not adorned in regal finery but clad in armor, poised for battle. It was there that she delivered a stirring speech which would solidify her legacy as one of the greatest leaders in English history. This moment was not only a testament to her bravery, but also underscored the resilience of her nation and heralded the beginning of Britain's rise as a global power. My loving people, she began her voice piercing the summer, air firm and imbued with an unyielding will. We have been persuaded by some, who are concerned for our safety, to be cautious and not expose ourselves to armed multitudes for fear of treachery. But I assure you I have no desire to live if I must distrust my faithful and loving people In this moment.

Speaker 1: 3:23

Elizabeth transcendent her role as monarch. She stood as a leader in the trenches, side by side with her countrymen, embodying the unity and strength of a nation under threat. Let tyrants fear, she proclaimed, standing resolute before her assembled troops, the very embodiment of defiance. I have always conducted myself in such a way that, under God, I have placed my greatest strength and safety in the loyal hearts and goodwill of my subjects. Her words were more than assurances. They were a powerful rallying cry that fortified the resolve of every Englishman present, binding them together in a shared spirit of courage and loyalty. Like Winston Churchill, many hundreds of years later, she was rallying her people for the fight of their lives.

Speaker 1: 4:18

As the sails of the Spanish Armada had loomed on the horizon, elizabeth's speech at Tilbury became a bulwark for her nation. She finally said I know I have the body of a weak and feeble woman, but I have the heart and stomach of a king, and a king of England too. These words resonating with the spirit of the era. Perfectly encapsulated her reign. Fascinating with the spirit of the era. Perfectly encapsulated her reign Pivotal time when Britain emerged from the shadows of its adversaries to stand as a beacon of strength and a leader among nations At the precipice of battle, with the future of an island nation hanging in the balance, elizabeth I cemented her legacy. The Spanish Armada would soon face defeat and Britain would embark on a path of unprecedented expansion and cultural renaissance. As we explore the leadership and legacy of Elizabeth, I let us begin at Tilbury, where a queen clad in armor reminded the world of the indomitable spirit of Nations.

Speaker 1: 6:10

Welcome to Double Helix Blueprint of Nations, season 1, episode 10, the Golden Age Queen Elizabeth's Reign. Welcome back to Double Helix Blueprint of Nations, where we investigate the events, people and moments that have defined nations throughout history. In our first season, we focus on compelling leadership legacies of leaders who have significantly shaped our country's national identities. We started in the United States, examining the profound influence of leaders like George Washington and Martin Luther King Jr, each setting enduring standards of leadership in their own eras. From there we moved to France, where figures such as Joan of Arc and Napoleon Bonaparte each left their mark on French national consciousness through their heroic and ambitious endeavors. French national consciousness through their heroic and ambitious endeavors In South Africa. Our discussions center on Nelson Mandela and FW the Clerk, leaders who navigated the complex path towards ending apartheid and setting the foundation ofa new democratic era Over in Russia. We explore the contrasting leadership styles and impacts of Lenin and Ivan the Terrible, each pivotal in shaping Russian governance across different centuries. Now we turn our attention back to the United Kingdom. Last time we talked about Winston Churchill and his enduring impact on the legacy of leadership in the United Kingdom. Our season now concludes with one of its most iconic figures, queen Elizabeth I.

Speaker 1: 7:51

This season we've been selective, focusing on leaders who played critical roles in their country's histories and helped set the benchmarks by which national leadership is often judged. While sometimes reflecting on idealized versions of leadership, the stories embody how nations perceive themselves and offer insights into the realities they face. As we enter the homestretch for Season 1, I hope you've gained more than just stories of historical figures who shaped their nations. I hope you've grasped a deeper sense of each nation's identity. In due course, I'll share some reflections on what we aim to uncover and convey as we explore this leadership legacies.

Speaker 1: 8:33

Looking ahead to season two anticipate a more detailed narrative. We'll expand our focus beyond individuals to include significant events and entire time periods that have sculpted the visage of nations. Today we look at one of Britain's most influential leaders, perhaps the person responsible for Britain's ascendancy to world power status and that led to the creation of the greatest empire the world had ever seen. We turn our gaze towards Queen Elizabeth I. She ascended to the throne at a time when the country was riddled with internal strife and external threats. Elizabeth's leadership was a crucible in which the fate of an island nation was fiercely contested. During her 45-year reign, from 1558 to 1603, elizabeth I navigated through the choppy waters of religious reforms, monarchical challenges and the ever-present threat of invasion. Her policies and decisions cultivated a period of relative stability and prosperity, setting the stage for what would become known as the Golden Age of England. As we explore Elizabeth's strategic maneuvers and her charismatic leadership, we'll see how her legacy is not just built on victories and reforms, but also on the cultural flourishings that her reign encouraged, from the defeat of the Spanish Armada to the flowering of English literature. Her impact is evident in the lasting strength and culture of Britain. The journey of Elizabeth. I will allow us to examine how her leadership helped not only define the contours of British history, but also to assert it as a formidable power on the world stage. We will revisit her most pivotal moments, from the fields at Tilbury, where she rallied her troops, to the courts of Europe, where she deftly outmaneuvered her rivals, all under the watchful eye of a queen who defied expectations and ushered Britain into the crest of world dominance.

Speaker 1: 10:41

When Queen Elizabeth I ascended to the throne in 1558, she inherited a realm embroiled in religious and political turmoil. Her rise marked not only just a change in monarchs, but a shift in the course of English history, set against the backdrop of the Tudor dynasty. Elizabeth was the daughter of Henry VIII, whose notorious reign had dramatically altered the religious landscape of England. Henry's break with the Catholic Church and the establishment of the Church of England under the Act of Supremacy in 1534 over his desire to be able to divorce and marry at will had initiated a series of religious reforms that oscillated with the succeeding monarchs. His death led to a brief succession of rulers, from his son, edward VI, who furthered Protestant reforms, to his eldest daughter, mary I, who sought to restore Catholicism with a zeal that earned her the moniker Bloody Mary. Mary's reign was marked by the persecution and execution of Protestants, a move that deepened the religious divide in the country. Her marriage to Philip II of Spain, a staunch Catholic, was unpopular among her subjects and failed to produce an heir, bringing Elizabeth, a Protestant, to the throne after Mary's death. Elizabeth, a Protestant, to the throne after Mary's death.

Speaker 1: 12:08

Elizabeth's ascension came at a time when England was relatively weak and isolated on the European stage. The treasury was depleted, the military was in disarray and the nation was surrounded by more powerful Catholic enemies on all sides, particularly Spain and France, who viewed England's Protestant regime as a threat to Catholic hegemony. It is important to note that we're talking about a time period when what God you served and what God thought about you was extremely important in a way that it is hard for us to contextualize in the middle of the 21st century. Internally, elizabeth faced the challenge of navigating a deeply divided nation. The religious unrest had not just only alienated factions at home, but had also jeopardized alliances abroad. Her legitimacy was continually under question, not just because of her Protestant faith, but also because of the scandalous circumstances surrounding her mother and Boleyn's marriage to Henry VIII. Despite these hurdles, elizabeth's reign would come to symbolize a golden age of English history. Her policies and leadership style focused on balancing the religious factions, stabilizing the economy and strengthening England's position on the global stage. This era laid the groundwork for the cultural, political and economic developments that would define her legacy. In this landscape of Tudor history, elizabeth emerged as a ruler who would skillfully charge a course through the internal strife and external threats, leading her nation into a period of unprecedented stability and prosperity. Her reign not only navigated the immediate crises of her time, but also set the stage for England's future as a global power. Queen Elizabeth I ascended to the English throne in 1558 at the age of 25, marking the beginning of a reign characterized by shrewd diplomacy, a flourishing art scene and an expanded naval power. Over the next 45 years, she demonstrated remarkable leadership amidst complex political landscapes. Remarkable leadership amidst complex political landscapes.

Speaker 1: 14:27

Elizabeth was born September 7, 1533, at Greenwich Palace to Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn. Her birth disappointed her father, who had hoped for a male heir, and her mother's execution when Elizabeth was just three years old left a lasting shadow over her early years. During her teens, she faced further challenges, including inappropriate advances from Thomas Seymour, the husband of Henry VIII's last wife, and his widow, catherine Parr. These early experiences significantly shaped her views on personal sovereignty in marriage. Seymour, who was much older than the then 13-14-year-old Elizabeth, conspired to marry and possibly assaulted young Elizabeth sexually. She ultimately survived the experience and would overcome it. For his part, seymour would be found guilty of 33 counts of treason and was brutally executed at the Tower of London, taking two blows of an axe to the head Shortly after becoming queen.

Speaker 1: 15:34

Elizabeth's diplomatic acumen was central to her success. She was known as the Virgin Queen. Her marital status was a strategic asset which she deployed as one of the tools of her diplomatic arsenal. She skillfully used the prospect of marriage to create alliances and neutralize threats, keeping European suitors entangled in negotiations without ever committing to marriage herself. When Elizabeth I ascended to the English throne, she faced a kingdom steeped in division and turmoil, as we discussed before throne. She faced a kingdom steeped in division and turmoil, as we discussed before. Her rise to power was not just a ceremonial shift, but it was a beacon of hope during one of England's most unstable periods.

Speaker 1: 16:16

Elizabeth inherited a realm deeply divided along religious lines and a legacy of her sister Mary I's reign, which had re-established Catholicism as a state religion and was marked by the persecution of Protestants. As queen Elizabeth's approach to these challenges was marked by a combination of shrewd political strategy and personal charisma. She understood the delicate nature of the religious tensions she inherited and recognized the need for a balanced approach. She inherited and recognized the need for a balanced approach. In an effort to unify her subjects and stabilize the nation, elizabeth implemented the Elizabethan Religious Settlement in 1559. This was a bold move. It was designed to find a middle ground between the Protestant reforms of her father, henry VIII, and the Catholic restoration under Mary I. The settlement restored the Church of England's independence from Rome, but also maintained some traditional Catholic practices, which was a pragmatic compromise that reflected Elizabeth's own moderate Protestant beliefs. This approach wasn't just about politics. It was a deeply personal approach for Elizabeth. Having seen the destructive consequences of religious extremism firsthand, she aimed to forge a path of tolerance and moderation. She once said I have no desire to make windows into men's souls, encapsulating her philosophy that the state should not enforce stringent controls over individual beliefs. This policy did not just help avert further religious wars, it also set a precedent for religious tolerance that was progressive for its time.

Speaker 1: 18:02

Elizabeth's reign also demanded navigation through the treacherous waters of international politics. England was a relatively weak and isolated nation when she became queen, surrounded by more powerful Catholic countries like Spain and France, which viewed Protestant England with suspicion and hostility. Elizabeth's diplomatic acumen was put to the test as she maneuvered through these complex relationships, using her own marriage status as a political tool in what came to be known as the marriage game. By entertaining marriage proposals from various foreign suitors without ever committing, she kept her enemies guessing and her allies hopeful. This period of Elizabeth's reign was not just about the survival of the nation or her own. It was about setting a new course for the future of England. Her policies and reforms laid the groundwork for what would become known as the Elizabethan Golden Age, a time of flourishing arts, of culture, expanding global exploration and the strengthening of the national identity of the British nation. Her ability to maintain her independence, her use of clever diplomacy and her commitment to religious moderations were great strategies and reflections of her character, which was forged through the trials of her youth and her astute understanding of her role as monarch. The trials of her youth and her astute understanding of her role as monarch. Her reign was emblematic of stability and progress, and it continues to inspire and resonate, reminding us of the power of resilience and the importance of a thoughtful approach to leadership.

Speaker 1: 19:40

Among the most pivotal events of her reign was, of course, the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, which showcased Elizabeth's military prowess and strategic acumen. This confrontation stemmed from a complex web of political, religious and economic tensions with Spain, then a dominant Catholic power under the king Philip II. At the height of its empire, philip viewed Protestant England as both a religious threat and a rival in the high seas, especially after Elizabeth's support of the Dutch rebels in the Spanish Netherlands and her tacit approval of English privateering preying on Spanish treasure ships. We will do a companion episode on privateering, or piracy as it may be most commonly known. The situation escalated following the execution of Mary, queen of Scots in 1587. She was a Catholic claimant to the English throne whom Philip had supported. In response, philip assembled a massive fleet known as the Invincible Armada to invade England. However, the English fleet, though outnumbered, outmaneuvered the Spanish with superior tactics, including the use of fire ships, to break the Spanish formation at Calais. The decisive battle saw the English forces, led by Lord Charles Howard and Sir Francis Drake, inflict significant damage on the Spanish ships, forcing them to retreat. The defeat of the Spanish Armada marked the decline of Spain's maritime dominance and heralded the rise of England as a global naval power.

Speaker 1: 21:25

Elizabeth was also known for her sharp wit and formidable intelligence, often engaging in lively exchanges with her advisors and ambassadors. Elizabeth was also known to have spoken over 11 different languages and, despite her royal status, she faced several health crises, including a significant bout with smallpox in 1562 that led to her use of the whitening makeup that you know her by. Her strategic management of personal relationships and never marrying were political as much as personal choices, which she used to her advantage, as we discussed before, for both domestic and international reasons. For both domestic and international reasons, in addition to the gains in the diplomatic and the religious front, elizabeth also was noted for her contributions to profound cultural flourishings that have defined the English heritage for centuries. Under her leadership, england didn't just achieve political stability and expand its international power. It also experienced an extraordinary blossoming of the arts, of science and exploration, reflecting the Queen's intellectual curiosity and cultural passions.

Speaker 1: 22:38

Elizabeth was particularly celebrated for her contributions to the arts and literature, a renaissance deeply intertwined with her support and patronage literature. A renaissance deeply intertwined with her support and patronage, recognizing the power of culture to bolster national pride and project royal prestige. She became a great supporter of the theater, music and literature. This encouragement gave rise to some of the most iconic figures in English literary history, including, of course, william Shakespeare. English literary history including, of course, william Shakespeare, christopher Marlowe and Edmund Spencer. Their works entertain and explore profound human themes, contributing significantly to the development of the English language. Theaters such as the Globe Theater were constructed during her reign, with performances becoming significant public events that attracted audiences from across the social spectrum. Elizabeth herself was known to attend these performances, showcasing her support and elevating the status of arts within society. Her court became a vibrant hub for artists, poets and musicians, whose works often celebrated her leadership and depicted her as a cultural icon.

Speaker 1: 23:52

The Elizabethan era was also a time of significant scientific progress, fueled by the queen's interest in discovery and innovation. Advancements in navigations were crucial for the era's seafaring explorations, and figures like John Dee, a philosopher, astronomer and advisor to the Queen, embodied the era's blend of science and the mystical. Their studies contributed to the broader knowledge base of the time, pushing the boundaries of English exploration and understanding. Elizabeth's support for exploration significantly expanded English influence across the globe. Mariners like Sir Francis Drake and Sir Walter Raleigh venture further into the unknown, opening up new freight routes and claiming territories in the name of England, including parts of the Americas. These expeditions brought wealth and resources to England and helped establish it as a major naval and colonial power. Later on down the years, the English Empire will come to be known as the Empire where the sun never sets. A lot of that work was laid down during Elizabeth's reign. That work was laid down during Elizabeth's reign.

Speaker 1: 25:12

Under Elizabeth, education also became more important and more accessible to a broader segment of the English society, fostering a literate populace more engaged in cultural and intellectual pursuits than at any other time in English history. The Queen's own fluency in several languages, as we noted before, and education were seen as exemplars of the benefits of learning, inspiring an era where education began to be viewed as valuable for both men and women. This period also standardized English as the official language of government, which helped unify the nation under a common language, enhancing communication and administration across the realm. Her influence extended far beyond the confines of her reign. She not only navigated England through the complex political challenges of her time, but also set the stage for a cultural renaissance that celebrated human creativity and intellect, for a cultural renaissance that celebrated human creativity and intellect. Elizabeth's legacy as a patron of the Golden Age enriched the world far beyond her own time, crafting an English identity that celebrated artistic expression, scientific inquiry and bold exploration. Examining the far-reaching legacy of Elizabeth I, it is evident that her influence extends beyond the historical confines of her reign, permeating the very essence of what it means to be English today.

Speaker 1: 26:51

No-transcript. During Elizabeth's reign, we saw the first seed of what we would later come to know as globalization. Through the exploration of Francis Drake and Walter Raleigh and men like them, we began to see trade routes open in places and in areas that had not been available to the world before. As we know, globalization has shaped economic and cultural exchanges around the world from their time to ours. The naval supremacy that began under her rule not only secured England's independence from continental powers, but also enabled it to become a dominant force in global politics. This naval tradition continued to play a crucial role in Britain's military and economic strategy, peaking during the British Empire and still significant in today's Royal Navy.

Speaker 1: 27:52

In today's context, elizabeth I is often seen as a symbol of strong leadership and national pride Her ability to maintain sovereignty, manage international relations and foster national culture in a male-dominated era resonates with ongoing discussions about gender and leadership. Her tenure is frequently referenced in debates about the capabilities and perception of female leaders in both political and corporate spheres. Corporate spheres Moreover, the celebration of her reign in various forms of popular culture, including films, books and television series, continues to influence the public's understanding of English history and its monarchical tradition. This cultural fascination underscores her lasting impact on England's global image and internal sense of identity. Elizabeth I's legacy is not only confined to the past. It is a living influence on England's national identity, on its cultural richness and on its political landscape. Her reign was a formative period that helped shape the trajectory of English history, setting precedents that would guide the development of what would become one of the world's most influential nations. Her strategic and cultural legacies continue to be relevant in forming the values and visions of modern Britain.

Speaker 1: 29:09

As the sun began to set on the Elizabethan era, queen Elizabeth I, the last monarch of the Tudor dynasty, faced her final years with the same resilience and sharp acumen that had characterized her entire reign. Yet these years were also marked by significant challenges that not only tested her leadership but also shaped the legacy she would leave behind. During her last years, elizabeth grappled with a series of political, economic and social issues that strained her government. The economic prosperity that had largely defined her middle reign began to waver due to a series of poor harvests, military expenditures and an increasingly debilitated and debased coinage, which led to inflation and to general economic distress. These issues were compounded by the ongoing war with Spain, which, despite the triumphant defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, dragged on until the Treaty of London in 1604, straining the royal treasury further. Politically, the question of her succession loomed large over the nation. Elizabeth famously refused to name an heir, concerned that doing so would invite conspiracy and perhaps even assassination attempts against her chosen successor. This refusal led to a great deal of uncertainty and intrigue at court, as various factions jockeyed for influence over who would sit in the English throne in the years to come.

Speaker 1: 30:45

Elizabeth's death in 1603 marked the end of the Tudor dynasty, a line of monarchs that had significantly shaped the course of English history. The Tudors, starting with Henry VII, had stabilized a nation wracked by the War of the Roses, established the Church of England under Henry VIII and seen England emerge as a major Protestant power under Elizabeth herself. Elizabeth's reign, in particular, had overseen a flourishing of English culture, the advent of the British Empire and a golden age of exploration and literacy achievement. However, elizabeth's failure to provide an heir meant that the stability she had fought so hard to maintain was under threat. Upon her death, the throne passed to James VI of Scotland, son of Mary Queen of Scots, who became James I of England. This succession effectively united the crowns of Scotland and England, marking the beginning of the Stuart dynasty. While this transition was relatively smooth, it brought with it a different set of religious and political challenges moot. It brought with it a different set of religious and political challenges, and the Steward's rule would eventually lead to civil war and, temporarily, to the abolition of the monarchy under Cromwell.

Speaker 1: 32:07

Elizabeth's influence persisted long after her death, continuing to impact British history, culture and politics. Her reign had demonstrated the power of effective leadership and set standards for future monarchs. Her policies of religious tolerance and her support of the arts created a legacy that would define the cultural landscape of Britain for generations. As we reflect on the expansive legacy of Queen Elizabeth I, it becomes increasingly clear that she was not merely a monarch of her time, but rather the epitome of the modern ruler. Her reign combined, guiled with moderation, qualities that not only steered England through the complexities of her era, but also set a course for the future that few other monarchs have achieved.

Speaker 1: 32:57

Elizabeth's leadership was marked by an astute understanding of the balance required to maintain power and promote prosperity in a period fraught with potential pitfalls. Her ability to maneuver through the political landscapes of Europe with tact and foresight was unparalleled. She skillfully used her unmarried status as a tool in international diplomacy, keeping potential suitors and allied nations in a delicate balance that favored England's national interest. Moreover, her moderate approach to governance, particularly in religious matters, avoided the extremes that had previously led to domestic strife. This moderation was not a sign of weakness, but a deliberate strategy to cultivate a more stable and unified English society. Elizabeth understood that the strength of her reign lay in the ability to allow cultural and religious diversity while maintaining her authority as sovereign.

Speaker 1: 33:56

Through these actions, elizabeth set England on the path to empire. Her support for maritime ventures and exploration laid the groundwork for the British Empire, expanding England's reach across the globe. This not only brought wealth and power, but also facilitated the spread of the English culture and influence worldwide. The spread of the English culture and influence worldwide. Elizabeth's reign also established the foundations of what I see as enlightened monarchy. She demonstrated that a monarch could rule with a combination of wisdom, cultural patronage and a nuanced understanding of governance. Elizabeth's legacy is a testament to the power of enlightened leadership. Elizabeth's legacy is a testament to the power of enlightened leadership, balancing personal conviction with political necessity and ambition with the welfare of her subjects. In today's context, elizabeth's reign offers valuable lessons in leadership. Her ability to adapt, her diplomatic skills and her visionary policies are qualities that modern leaders can admire and aspire to emulate. She was a ruler who did not just respond to the challenges of her time, but anticipated the needs of the future, setting England on a trajectory that would eventually see it become a global leader. Elizabeth I was more than just the Queen of England. She was a visionary who had redefined the very nature of leadership and monarchy. Her reign was not only golden in terms of cultural achievements, but also her time, whose influences and ideals resonate even in the modern world.

Speaker 1: 35:53

We've made it, folks. Season one of Double Helix has come to a close. Well, sort of, we've traversed the globe featuring leaders who shaped the DNA of their nations. If you've enjoyed our journey, please share, like and engage with us on various platforms as a one-man team, with the support of my family, of course. I've strived to keep things straightforward, yet I'm brimming with ambitious ideals for season two Truly ambitious. Special thanks to Mrs Double Helix. She has been my number one fan and supporter. She has even agreed to be subjected to my monologues here, so that tells you that she is a trooper. Now, if I could only get my kids to listen, I will be set. No, just kidding. So though we're pausing the tales of pivotal national figures, rest assured some of these same people will return in future episodes.

Speaker 1: 36:47

Meanwhile, I'll keep the insights flowing with additional quick companion episodes for Season 1. These episodes aim to enrich our discussions with broader historical themes and events, providing essential context and background to the narratives we've just explored and we'll continue to explore. I admit we history buffs can be a bit exclusive at times, presuming widespread knowledge of the intricate themes and events that paint the broader strokes of history. So I am aiming to fix that. These are not meant to be deep dives, they're just meant to be quick companions. So I am aiming to fix that. These are not meant to be deep dives, they're just meant to be quick companions. So keep that in mind.

Speaker 1: 37:23

Also, stay tuned for one more special episode where we'll weave together all the threads that we've uncovered throughout season one, exploring any overarching connections among the figures we've discussed and reflecting on their implications on our world today. I also plan to hopefully have special guests that will help talk through what we've all uncovered and listened to for the past almost six months. So, looking forward, anticipate the launch of Season 2. It's going to take me a few months of devoted reading and research and hopefully get some expert advice as well, as we aim to return with regular weekly releases. Currently we're more bi-weekly-ish. So once again, thank you for tuning in to Double Helix. I'm eager to get together again and we'll continue unraveling the complex DNA of nations together. See you soon.