Elizabeth Rosemond Taylor was born in Hampstead, London, to American parents, Francis Lenn Taylor and Sara Sothern. Her father was an art dealer, and her mother was a stage actress who gave up her career. Born amidst the pre-war atmosphere of Europe, her early years were steeped in culture and artistic appreciation, unknowingly laying the foundation for her future career in the performing arts.

As World War II intensified, the Taylor family relocated to Los Angeles in 1939. Elizabeth's striking beauty and natural talent quickly attracted attention, leading to a Universal Pictures contract at age 9. This contract was soon dropped, but she impressed MGM executives with her audition, leading her to secure a new contract with them. This marked the official beginning of her Hollywood journey and catapulted her into the world of acting. This period was crucial, solidifying her place as a working child actor in Hollywood.

At the age of 12, Elizabeth Taylor achieved international stardom with her role in 'National Velvet'. This film wasn't just a box office success; it solidified her image as a talented and mature actress beyond her years. 'National Velvet' cemented her as a bankable star and opened doors to more prominent roles, propelling her into the upper echelon of Hollywood's young talent.

As she matured, Taylor transitioned smoothly from child star to leading lady, showcasing her versatility in films like 'A Place in the Sun' (1951), 'Giant' (1956), and 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' (1958). These roles demonstrated her range and ability to tackle complex characters, earning her critical acclaim and solidifying her reputation as one of Hollywood's most talented actresses. This decade established her as a serious dramatic performer.

The 1960s marked a turning point in Taylor's life and career. While filming 'Cleopatra' (1963), the most expensive film ever made at the time, she embarked on a passionate and highly publicized affair with co-star Richard Burton, who was then married. The ensuing scandal captivated the world, further amplifying her celebrity status. Despite the controversy, the era cemented her as a cultural icon and her affair with Burton became one of Hollywood's most legendary love stories.

Taylor won her first Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' (1966) which she co-stared in with then husband, Richard Burton. Then again in 1967 she won the Academy Award for Best Actress for 'BUtterfield 8'. She continued to work in movies through out the next several years, including, 'The Taming of the Shrew' (1967), 'Secret Ceremony' (1968), and 'Hammersmith Is Out' (1972).

In the mid-1980s, deeply moved by the AIDS epidemic, Taylor became a pioneering activist and fundraiser. She co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) and later established the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF). Her tireless advocacy helped raise awareness, fund research, and combat stigma surrounding the disease, leaving a lasting impact on the fight against AIDS.

Dame Elizabeth Taylor passed away at the age of 79 in Los Angeles, California, due to congestive heart failure. Her death marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's greatest stars, a passionate advocate for social causes, and a woman who lived life on her own terms. Her impact on film, fashion, and philanthropy continues to resonate to this day.