Today in Queen Bess's Life

Tomb Effigy of Queen Elizabeth I

Elizabeth passed away on this day in 1603.  Her cause of death has never been determined, but common speculation is that she died due to blood poisoning -- perhaps from years of application of the white makeup on her face called Venetian Ceruse.  The concoction was made up white lead and vinegar.  Considering we don't want our children in homes with lead paint these days, it certainly seems probable that this was the cause of the great queen's death.

In my romantic mind, I love the legend that her last word was  "Robin" -- in reference to her longtime lover, Robert Dudley. She could have never married Dudley without severe political consequences.  Alas, her death was likely much less romantic as it is also speculated that she was in a deep sleep for a few days before she finally expired.