Queen Elizabeth I and Smallpox: The Impact on Her Appearance

Queen Elizabeth I is believed to have had smallpox in 1562 at the age of 29, which left her with a scarred and pockmarked face and body. The disease was common in Elizabethan England and was often fatal, but Elizabeth survived. Her skin was said to be "so disfigured that she could not bear to look at herself in a mirror". As a result, she would often wear heavy make-up and wigs to cover the scars. However, she also refused to let her appearance affect her public persona and continued to project an image of strength and confidence throughout her reign.