Golden Speech facts for kids
The Golden Speech was a very special talk given by Queen Elizabeth I. She delivered it on November 30, 1601, in a grand room at the palace. About 141 members of the Parliament were there to listen. At first, people expected the speech to be about money problems and high prices in the country. But Queen Elizabeth used it to share her deep love and respect for England, her job as queen, and for the people in Parliament.
This speech was her very last one to Parliament. It reminds many people of her famous Speech to the Troops at Tilbury, which she gave to her soldiers before the Spanish Armada was expected to attack. The Golden Speech is seen as a symbolic end to Queen Elizabeth's long rule. She passed away about 16 months later, in March 1603. Her cousin, James I, became the new ruler.
What Was the Golden Speech About?
The Golden Speech was given by Queen Elizabeth I to members of Parliament. These were important people who helped run the country. They were worried about the economy and the cost of goods. People hoped the Queen would talk about these money issues.
However, Queen Elizabeth chose to speak about something else. She spoke from her heart about her love for her country and her people. She told them how much she cared for their well-being. This made the speech very memorable and touching for everyone present.
Why Was It Called 'Golden'?
The name 'Golden Speech' was first used much later, around the time of the Puritan period. A printed version of the speech had a special message at the top. It said that the speech "ought to be set in letters of gold." This showed how important and valuable people thought the speech was.
Over the years, this speech was printed many times. People would share it whenever England faced difficulties. It became known as the 'Golden Speech' of Queen Elizabeth. Several copies of the speech still exist today. One printed copy is even thought to have been checked and corrected by Queen Elizabeth herself.
See also
- 10th Parliament of Queen Elizabeth I
- List of MPs elected to the English parliament in 1601
