Queen Elizabeth I's reign was marked by several defining moments that shaped England's history. One significant moment was the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588, which established England as a major naval power. Additionally, the flourishing of the Elizabethan Era saw advancements in arts and literature, highlighted by figures like William Shakespeare. Her ability to maintain control and navigate political challenges, including issues related to religion, solidified her legacy as one of England's most formidable monarchs.