She was born in England in 1501 or 1507, and was the daughter of Sir Thomas Boleyn, 1st Earl of Wiltshire, and Lady Elizabeth Howard. Anne had a good education, and was fluent in French, Spanish, and Italian. She also played the lute and virginals, and was known for her beauty and charm.
In 1522, Anne became a maid of honour to Queen Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII's first wife. She quickly caught the king's attention, and they began an affair. In 1527, Anne became pregnant, and Henry decided to divorce Catherine so that he could marry her.
The divorce was a long and complicated process, and it was not until 1533 that Anne and Henry were finally married. Anne was crowned Queen of England on 1 June 1533.
Anne's reign as queen was short-lived. In 1536, she was accused of adultery, treason, and witchcraft. She was found guilty and beheaded on 19 May 1536.
Anne Boleyn remains a controversial figure. Some historians believe that she was a victim of Henry VIII's ruthless ambition, while others believe that she was a scheming and ambitious woman who was ultimately responsible for her own downfall.