Queen Victoria proclaimed Empress of India under the Royal Titles Act 1876

Background. In 1874, Benjamin Disraeli returned to power as Prime Minister. He maintained a close friendship with Queen Victoria, who in 1876 elevated him to the peerage as Earl of Beaconsfield. Disraeli pushed the Royal Titles Act 1876 through Parliament, leading to Victoria taking the title "Empress of India" from 1 May 1876. The British parliament voted to grant her this additional title in 1876.

Legislative Process. The Royal Titles Act 1876, also known as the Imperial Titles Act 1876, was an act of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It officially recognized Queen Victoria and subsequent monarchs as "Empress of India." Disraeli, who had been elevated to the House of Lords in August 1876, saw the Act through Parliament. The title had been assumed by Victoria in 1876 under Disraeli's encouragement.

Proclamation. The new title was proclaimed at the Delhi Durbar on 1 January 1877.

Disraeli and Victoria. Disraeli and Victoria shared a close relationship, which was exploited for mutual advantage. Disraeli's elevation to the peerage in 1876 reflected his influence and the Queen's favor. His government enacted various reforms, including housing and labor laws, while maintaining a strong connection with the Queen.