22 January 1901
Queen Victoria dies

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The queen dies, aged 82, and her eldest son becomes king as Edward VII. Victoria's reign has lasted more than 63 years, the longest of any British monarch. During it, Britain has seized territories across the globe, and established itself as the world's largest imperial power. At home, the old social order, based on land ownership, has changed, and the majority of men aged 21 and over now have the vote. Women are becoming active in public life, and their campaign for the vote is on the horizon. Important social reforms have been introduced and living conditions are improving, though many people are still extremely poor.

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