Anne Boleyn

Anne Boleyn - Lady Anne Boleyn - Marquess of Pembroke - Queen of England

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

Anne Boleyn was born in 1501, at Blicking Hall, Norfolk. The third Child to Thomas Boleyn, Earl of Wiltshire, and Elizabeth Howard Boleyn, Countess of Wiltshire. Anne had a Sister called Mary Boleyn, and a Brother called George Boleyn. 

In 1505, the family had moved to Kent, as Anne's Father Thomas Boleyn had inherited Herver Castle from his Father William Boleyn. It it also believed that the Boleyn Family, at the time, was a well respected family within the English Aristocracy. Anne's Father, Thomas Boleyn, was a well respected diplomat, with a gift for languages. He was also a favorite of Henry Tudor VII - who would send Thomas on many diplomatic missions. 

Thomas Boleyn, Earl of Wiltshire, Anne Boleyn's Father

By 1513, Anne was invited to join the Schoolroom of Archduchess Margaret of Austria, Governor of the Netherlands. While here, her education was limited to Arithmetic, her Family Genealogy,  Grammar, History, Reading, Spelling and Writing. She also learnt domestic skills such as Dancing, Embroidery, Good Manners, Household Management, Music, Needlework and Singing. Anne also learned to play Games such as Cards, Chess and Dice. And also got taught Archery, Falconry, Horseback riding and Hunting - I mean...what an education!!!

Elizabeth Howard Boleyn, Countess of Wiltshire, Anne Boleyn's Mother

August 1514, Anne and her Sister, Mary Boleyn, were selected to go to France, to serve as Maids for Princess Mary - Mary Tudor, Queen of France, and Sister to Henry Tudor VIII, as she was going to be marrying King Louis XII of France. By October that year, they had both arrived in France. Anne Boleyn would remain serving for Mary Tudor, up until January the following year, where she was asked to serve for the new Queen of France, Claude, the Wife of Francis I, Anne would remain serving the new Queen for the next 7 years of her life...!

James Butler, Earl of Ormond, Anne Boleyn's Cousin

January 1522, after serving for Claude of France, Anne Boleyn returned back to England as her Father had begun marriage negotiations for her and James Butler, Earl of Ormond - Anne Boleyn's Cousin...The marriage was mainly to settle a dispute over the Titles and Estates of the Earldom of Ormond... Poor Anne. The following Month, the marriage negotiations between James and Anne came to an holt, and Anne Boleyn was given a place in Catherine of Aragon's - Henry VIII's first Wife - Household. 

4 March 1522, at York Place - a property owned by Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, Anne made her first public appearance at the first court Pageant 'The Château Vert' - a special Shrovetide Pageant. During this time, Anne gets courted with Henry Percy, 6th Earl of Northumberland. As Spring passed, and Summer of 1522 arrived, Anne had now began a relationship with Henry Percy.

Henry Percy, 6th Earl of Northumberland

The following year, Spring 1523, Anne and Henry Percy decided - in secrecy, to marry as soon as possible. But by Autumn, Thomas Wolsey had learnt that Henry Percy was already betrothed to Mary Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury! Henry Percy was then forbidden to see Anne, and he was sent back to his Homeland of Northumberland to marry Mary Talbot. Anne Boleyn, was also sent back to her Home at Hever Castle, Kent, as you can imagine, Anne was angry at Thomas, and she also swore to seek revenge! Anne would only spend a couple of years back Home, and she returned to Catherine of Aragon's Court, and back to serving as Maid of Honor. This time round, Anne caught the eye of a Tudor Poet, Thomas Wyatt - but they would only ever remain as close friends, and with that, Anne was brought into the Kings circle at the court, where she then caught the attention of Henry Tudor VIII...

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

Early 1526, Henry VIII, who is now aged 35, asks a young 19 year old Anne to be his Mistress...although he is taken back when she turns him down, stating she will "only give up her virginity to the Man she marries", Henry doesn't give up though, as he keeps showering Anne with much unwanted attention.

March 1526, and Thomas Wolsey is sent on a diplomatic mission, although this is believed to be because Henry VIII wanted him away from Anne, which made sense considering she had sworn revenge on him... As months go by, Anne is unable to cope with Henry VIII's attention, and by Summer she had had enough and returns Home, but Henry continues to protest his love for her through letters...how sweet.

Spring 1527, Anne returns to the courts, and she's given beautiful apartments, and showered with jewelry and clothes, she also finally accepted Henry VIII's request to marry - but only if he divorced Catherine of Aragon...

Henry Tudor, King Henry VIII

August 1526, Henry VIII traveled to Beaulieu to go Hunting, and Anne Boleyn joined him, this wasn't uncommon as they were now living openly as a couple, and it was now, publicly rumored that they were planning on marrying. John Fisher, Bishop of Rochester was against this arrangement - read more about the difficulties Catherine of Aragon went through when Henry VIII wanted to divorce her here - .https://wednesdayshistory.blogspot.com/2020/05/catherine-of-aragon-spanish-princess.html.

The public, and of course, those who loved Catherine of Aragon, did not approve of any of this either, they even blamed Thomas Wolsey and Anne Boleyn of trying to replace Catherine...and even went as far as blaming them for the poor harvest that happened in 1527...!!! Anne Boleyn was proving to be unpopular by the public, booing and jeering whenever they seen her.

Two years later, June 1528, one of Anne Boleyn's Ladies becomes unwell with the 'sweating sickness', Henry VIII decided it was best for Anne to go back Home, incase she had also caught the disease - which she did on 16 June. When Henry VIII heard of this, he sent one of his own Physicians to Hever Castle. By July, Anne had made a full recovery.

Thomas Wolsey, Cardinal of the Catholic Church

Early November 1529, Anne would have been aged around 29, and she is constantly reminding Henry VIII, that if it wasn't for him, she would have been married with Children by now...but at the same time, she would accuse Henry of keeping her waiting  - this was probably more aimed at how long the court proceedings were over Henry and Catherine's estranged marriage, she would also demand that Henry stopped sending his mending and embroidering to Catherine. Come late November, and Henry VIII had changed the name of York Palace to Whitehall Palace, and began renovations for Anne Boleyn. December 1529 Anne Boleyn is Titled Lady Anne Boleyn as her Father was created Earl of Wiltshire, she is also ordered to leave Greenwich Palace and go reside at Richmond.

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

During September 1530, Thomas Wolsey made a journey to York, he had quite the crowd accompanying him, and during the travel, rumors' s spread that Thomas would lead a revolt against the King. By October 23, Henry VIII hears that Thomas is trying to bring down Anne Boleyn, the King see's this as Thomas Wolsey working against him, and he orders that Thomas Wolsey be arrested. The warrant for Thomas' arrest was made on November 1, and it was sent to Henry Percy, who was also instructed to bring him back to London upon his arrest! Few days later, and Henry Percy arrives at Cawood Palace, where he told Thomas Wolsey that he is being arrested in the name of the King. When Henry Percy and Thomas Wolsey made their trip down South, Thomas' health started to deteriorate, and at 8am on 29 November 1529, Thomas Wolsey passes at the Abbey of St Mary in Leicester.

Some people were sad to hear this news of course, however, Anne Boleyn had other emotions and ideas...The following month, Anne threw a Masque called 'Of the Cardinals Going to Hell'...How nice of her...

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

5 January 1531 Henry VIII get's handed a brief  of  the Pope ordering Henry and Anne to split, this was issued by his wife Catherine of Aragon, who just refused to divorce Henry VIII - read more about this here: https://wednesdayshistory.blogspot.com/2020/05/catherine-of-aragon-spanish-princess.html. By Summer of 1531, Anne was becoming very inpatient with Henry, and had fits of tempers and bad moods, and as you can imagine, Henry was finding it difficult to be with her. 

By October 1531, Anne and Henry are now living openly with each other - which as you can imagine caused quite the stir... 24th November and a mob of 7,000 women charged at a house where Anne was dining, with the intent of lynching her! Fortunately she escaped, unhurt but obviously shaken.

August the following year, Anne and Henry begin a Summer Progression of the foreign countries, however this had to be abandoned due to the hostility shown towards Anne. But not all was bad for Anne, as on 1 September she was created Marquess of Pembroke - this was the first time a hereditary Title was given to a woman.

George Boleyn, 2nd Viscount Rochford, Anne's Brother

Anne and Henry married, on 14 November 1532 at a secret wedding in London, but now they were living openly as a married couple! Anne even had her own court which included her Brother George Boleyn, 2nd Viscount Rochford, and his wife Lady Jane, Lady Rochford, Sir Francis Bryan, Francis Weston, William Brereton, Sir Thomas Wyatt and other members of the Boleyn family.

7 October 1532, Anne and Henry travel to Dover, where they would cross to Calais, while there a Nun named Elizabeth Barton, told Henry that he needed to return to the Pope and Catherine of Aragon immediately or face a life of damnation! Henry did not return, and instead ordered that Elizabeth Barton be watched. 3 days later, Anne and Henry along with, Henry Fitzroy, Charles Brandon Duke of Suffolk, Thomas Cromwell and other members of the nobility crossed the channel from Dover to Calais to meet with Francis II of Boulogne - Anne however did not go to the meet up.

Henry went and visited Francis II at the Exchange Palace in Calais on 27 October, he orders Anne to remain out of sight as he's worried her presence may affect the outcome - this was a common occurrence with Henry and Anne. And soon enough, Anne becomes fed up, and later that night, at the Masked Ball - held to celebrate the meeting, Anne makes her grand presence, unmasks, and boldly asks Francis II to dance. By November 11 Anne and Henry return home, and again, Henry is approached by Elizabeth Barton who tells him if he marries Anne he will die within a month, and that a plague will hit England in 6 months...

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

January 1533, Anne announces she is pregnant - Henry now knew he had to marry her in a open wedding to make sure their child would be legitimate, and so on 25 January, at Kings Chapel in Whitehall Palace they got married...in secret...again! A few months went by before the public knew anything about the marriage or the pregnancy. However, it wasn't Anne who broke the news. April 8, Henry VIII announces that him and Anne are married, and that they are having a Child. This wouldn't be a happy marriage for ling though, because only a month later on 23 May, the newly appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Carnmer declared the marriage as null and invalid - but then 5 days later he changed his mind and declared it was a valid marriage...

1 June 1533, and Anne was crowned Queen Consort of England, in St Peters Abbey, Westminster. Anne walked in procession from Westminster Hall to the Abbey, the streets were full of people watching and observing...but no-one was cheering for the new Queen... By July Anne had gone to Hampton Court in preparation for the birth of her child. One month later, Anne and Henry move to Windsor where Anne can continue her resting before the birth. 7 September Anne births a Child - though Henry is upset and blames her, and the Gods for denying them a Son, they name the Child after Henry VIII's Grandmother, Elizabeth Tudor - read the blog I wrote on her here: https://wednesdayshistory.blogspot.com/2020/04/elizabeth-tudor-elizabeth-i-of-england.html. And Anne and Henry leave the year 1533 on a high, as Anne announces she is pregnant with their second child.

Elizabeth Tudor, Anne Boleyn and Henry Tudors Daughter

Sadly, in June or July 1534, Anne delivers a still horn - Henry decides to keep this a secret, mainly to save face... February the following year, Henry has an affair with Anne's Cousin, Madge Shelton...I mean, he's cheated on Catherine and now Anne, what a Gent...! And sadly the months only got worse for Anne. Anne announces she's pregnant with their third child, but sadly, she delivers another still birth, and again, Henry kept this a secret... November, Anne is pregnant with their fourth child, aware everything depends on this pregnancy...Heartbreakingly, on 29 January 1536 Anne suffers a miscarriage...

Henry see's this as Gods way of punishing him and declares his marriage with Anne as unlawful, either because of her pre-contract with her cousin James Butler all them years ago, or it could have been the affair Henry himself had with Anne's cousin Madge Shelton... Meanwhile, Anne blamed it all on Henry, but deep down, Henry decided he needed a way out of this...and this meant Anne would have to suffer...

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

Spring 1536, Henry has asked Thomas Cromwell to 'gather evidence' on Anne Boleyn, and they accused her of commiting  adultery with 5 men: George Boleyn, Henry Norris, Francis Weston, William Brereton and Mark Smeaton, as they were all seen entering her Chambers, they also accused Anne and the others for plotting to kill the King! April 30, Mark Smeaton is arrested, and taken to Cromwell's House for questioning. He was tortured and admitted to adultery with Anne.

May 1 Anne and Henry are watching the May Day Joust, here Henry publicly accused his wife and Henry Norris - who was taking part in the Jousting event, of adultery! The next day, Anne's brother George Boleyn, and Henry Norris were arrested and taken to the Tower of London. Anne was also arrested and taken by barge to the Tower of London, she was charged with 'having committed adultery 

with Henry Norris, Francis Weston, William Brereton, Mark Smeaton and incest with her brother George Boleyn'... The men were sentenced to death on May 12.

Anne Boleyn, Queen of England

3 days later, on May 15, Anne was tried in front of 26 peers, including her Uncle, Duke of Norfolk. She argued her innocence, and she was found guilty, she, just like her Brother and the others, was also sentenced to death - die by burning or be beheaded, this fell on whichever Henry VIII chose... May 17, and Anne heart wrenchingly watched the executions of those sentenced before her. The following day her execution was delayed as the executioner hadn't arrived from France yet, but Henry wanted this over and done with - so he sent for St Omar, a skilled headsman who was known for severing heads with a sword!

And on the 19th May, Anne Boleyn was beheaded with one single stroke of the sword. She was buried in the Choir of the Royal Chapel of St Peter ad Vincula

What do you think? Do you think Anne was guilty of all those things...Or was Henry the only Man she ever gave everything to?

Until next time...

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Catherine of Aragon - The Spanish Princess - Queen of England

Catherine of Aragon - The Spanish Princess - Queen of England

Catherine of Aragon

Catherine of Aragon was born on 16 December 1485 at Archbishops Palace of Alcalá de Henares, near Madrid. Daughter to Ferdinand II of Aragon, and Queen Isabelle I of Castile. Catherine was not Christened but did hold a Roman Catholic belief.

She was born into the House of Lancaster - an English Royal House - through her Grandparents being related to Henry Tudor (VII).

Catherine was well educated, and her Tutor was Alessandro Geraldini - a clerk in the Holy Orders. Catherine's education was very vast, she studied Arithmetic, Canon and Civil Law, Classical Literature, Genealogy and Heraldry. As well as History, Philosophy, Religion and Theology. Catherine didn't stop there either, she was well educated in a few languages, and she could speak, read and write in Latin and Spanish, and she could also speak French and Greek. Catherine also got taught how to cook, dance, draw, embroil, learnt needle point, sewing, spinning and weaving, as well as lace making, music, and good manners. 

Catherine of Aragon

1488, when Catherine was around 2/3 years old, she had gotten enbrothed to Arthur Tudor, Henry VII's first Son.  They didn't actually meet each other until 4 November 1501! The marriage had all been arranged by Henry Tudor himself. Catherine and Arthur married 10 days later at St Paul's Cathedral, London - even though only half of Catherine's dowry had been paid off.   Shortly after their wedding, Arthur was sent to Ludlow Castle, Wales, to carry out his role as the Prince of Wales, and so Catherine became the Princess of Wales.

This sadly didn't last long, because some point during their marriage, Catherine and Arthur both became unwell from an unknown illness, while Catherine recovered back to full health, Arthur sadly didn't, and  6 months later on 2 April 1502, Arthur passes away. 

Arthur Tudor, Prince of Wales

Catherine is now living her young Teenage life as a Widow, and this meant Catherine had some troubling times ahead. With only half of Catherine's dowry paid off, this meant by contract, Catherine would have to return to Spain. So Henry VII had another idea, marry Catherine himself, but this wouldn't have gone down well with his people because his Wife,  Elizabeth Platagent, had only recently passed away herself.  

But in 1491, Henry, and his Wife Elizabeth did birth a third child, a Son, Henry Tudor. 

Around 1505, discussions about Henry and Catherine marrying began. This wasn't an easy ride though, because under the Canon Law, it is condemned to marry your Husbands Brother. And so, this marriage depended on one person, Pope Julius II. Catherine was adamant that her marriage with Arthur Tudor was never consummated - meaning their marriage was invalid. When Pope Julius learnt this, he allowed them to marry by signing them a special dispensation. 

And so in 1509, when Henry Tudor became King, he married Catherine of Aragon in a private ceremony at the church of  the Observant Friars outside Greenwich Palace - this was probably to avoid the voices of the people who may not have agreed with Catherine marrying her late Husbands Brother - Catherine's main role and Queen and Wife to Henry was to birth him a Son.

Henry Tudor, King Henry VIII

Catherine and Henry had many failed pregnancies, but they did birth a Daughter, who became a Queen, Mary I of England - head over to -wednesdayshistory.blogspot.com/2020/04/mary-tudor.html- to read more about her!

In August 1509, Catherine announces she is pregnant with their first Child, a Daughter, but sadly on 31 January 1510, she passes. Only a few months later, in May the same year, Catherine is pregnant with their second, a Son. He was born 1 January 1511, named Henry Tudor and was christened at Richmond, his Godparents were, Archbishop of Canterbury, Earl of Surrey and the Countess of Devon. 

Henry however sadly passed on 22 February 1511, and was buried at Westminster Abbey.

1315 and Henry VIII sets sail from Dover to Calais, Catherine acted as regent while he was absent, she was also pregnant with their third. Catherine gave birth to their second Son on 17 September, but sadly he passes only a few hours after. At some point during the year 1514, Catherine announces she is pregnant with their fourth child,  a Son, she birthed him on 8 January 1515. but he sadly passed in the womb. 

Catherine falls pregnant for the fifth time during the year 1515. This was an unhappy pregnancy, before the birth, Catherine's Father sadly passes away on 23 January 1516. And only a few month later, on 18 February 1516, Mary Tudor was born. Even though their was a lot of happiness and celebrations, Henry wasn't very happy, for Catherine had yet to birth him a Son...

Two years later Catherine announces she is pregnant with their third Daughter, but she sadly passes on 10 November 1518.

Mary Tudor, Mary I of England

By 1519, Catherine become slightly unwell, her physical and mental health started to slowly deteriorate, which is understandable considering how many children this poor couple had lost. During this year, Catherine also started to withdraw herself from the Court as she became very upset on learning that Henry VIII, had in fact birthed a Son, Henry Fitzroy, with his former mistress, Elizabeth Blount. 

It is believed that Henry thought very high of his Son, and he was very happy when he found the news out. 

But this was just the beginning to what became a very stressful, and somewhat unhappy marriage. 

Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Richmond and Somerset

In the year 1524, Henry VIII starts questioning the validity of their marriage - he became very concerned about a certain passage in the Book of  Leviticus, which warns of the consequences of anyone marrying their Brothers Widow - which I will cover more off when I do a separate blog about Henry VIII himself.

He told Catherine that they had been living in Sin and that they should divorce, he asked for her co-operation and understanding, Catherine argued that she believed that their marriage was legal as well as valid, and refused to have their marriage annulled.

Charles V, Catherine's Cousin, Holy Roman Emperor 

July 1527, Catherine writes to her Nephew, Charles V, explaining the current situation she is in with Henry and his views on their marriage. She also asks Charles if he can speak to the Pope and see if he can get the case heard in a Rome Court. By Summer 1528, Catherine learnt, that Henry had been having an affair with Anne Boleyn - this was not well received by the public, they booed and jeered whenever she was seen... 

By Summer 1528, Catherine had returned to Court as she had been taken with ill health. During this time, Thomas Wolsey - Henry VIII's almoner, met with Robert Shorton - Catherine's almoner . Robert insisted that Catherine's first marriage was never consummated, he also mentioned that there are Papal Bulls - an official letter or document issued by the Pope - over in Spain stating that the marriage between Catherine and Henry was allowed - despite any impediment! Thomas Worsley refused to listen and insisted that Catherine step down, and retire gracefully, allowing Henry to remarry freely.

Catherine of Aragon

October 1528, Catherine announces that she has, in her possession, a copy of the dispensation issued by the Pope, that allowed them to marry, even if her first marriage was consummated, or not! On  24 October, Cardinal Campeggio - who had been sent to assist Thomas Wosley, met with Catherine advising her to retire gracefully, Catherine refused, and stated she will live and die a married woman!

October was a very hard time for Catherine, shortly after her conversation with the Cardinal, she had received a letter, saying that she was inciting the people of England to rebellion, this would have been because it wasn't common practice to for a Queen to rebel against her King.

The letter also said that, if Catherine continues  to go against Henry, she would also be separated from her daughter, Mary - but still Catherine refused to have their marriage annulled!

By November 1528, Catherine had become separated from Mary, and she was also kept in isolation, but still Catherine refused to co-operate with Henry's wishes - guess you can say this young lady was really devoted to Henry and their marriage, especially considering not many Queens, would have acted regent like Catherine did for Henry given her situation at the time... While Catherine was living in isolation, Thomas Wosley wrote to her asking for the original copy of the dispensation, but Catherine was worried that if she did this, they would destroy it when it arrives in England.

Catherine of Aragon

The following year, on June 18, Catherine asks if the case can be heard in a Rome Court, this appeal was refused and was told to reappear on June 21. At the case hearing, Henry explains his fears about how the Gods are going to punish him for marrying his Brothers one and only Wife. Catherine on the other hand,  states her love and loyalty for Henry - even asking him to bare witness to her being a virgin when they consummated their marriage on the first night! She again appealed for the case to be heard in a Rome Court as she did not recognise the authority of the Court, again this was refused and Catherine walked out of Court. 

When the Court re-opened on 25 June 1529, Catherine did not appear, and so the case continued in her absence. At the hearing, a lot got said about the legitimacy and validity of their marriage. Henry started to think that the Court wasn't able enough to help him

Thomas Cranmar, the Archbishop of Canterbury - who was helping Henry build his case - told Henry to go to the Doctors of Divinity in the Universities of Bible Studies, as they would have stated that the marriage was invalid based on Catherine marrying her late Husbands Brother...

Eustache Chapyus, a new Spanish Ambassador arrives to England committed to help Catherine. But he later admits he sadly can not help her as Henry is adamant he will get his divorce.

24 December Henry tells Catherine that even if the Pope declares their marriage lawful, he will get his divorce...

Catherine of Aragon

Early December 1529, Catherine was ordered to leave Greenwich Palace and go to Richmond. But by 24 December 1529 Catherine had returned to Court, as there was unease building amongst the people about here being sent away. Henry reminded Catherine that will get his divorce, and if the Pope declares their marriage lawful he call out the Pope for being a heretic. 

By the end of 1529 Catherine was sent back to Richmond.

While there Catherine had sent another letter, this time to Dr Pedro Ortiz, her representative in Rome, begging him to put pressure on the Pope over the validity of their marriage

Christmas 1529, and Catherine was present at the Court for the Twelfth Night celebrations, Henry was polite enough to sit at the same table as his Wife. 

Anne Boleyn

5 January 1531, Henry received a brief, issued to him by the Pope - by Catherine's demand - stating he has to separate from Anne Boleyn, Henry glances at the paper in front of him, takes it from the Pope and places it next to him...

A privy of councillors were sent to go and speak to Catherine, in order to get her to make her marriage annul, as always Catherine refused stating this time that she will only change her mind if the Pope declares their marriage invalid or unlawful

11 July 1531 Henry has moved the Court to Woodstock to go hunting. Catherine wakes to find Henry gone, leaving her and Catherine alone in Windsor, she writes to him saying she's deeply upset she wasn't up in time to say goodbye to him before he left - Henry never told Catherine of his plan to move the Court. 

Catherine was told she should leave Windsor, and find some other place for her and Mary to reside. Catherine was very hurt and upset, and wrote to Henry explaining that he had taken matters to far. Henry replied, and sent her to The Manor of the More...

Christmas 1531, Catherine wasn't invited to the Court, she did send a gift to Henry, but he sent it back with a letter stating it is not proper of them to exchange gifts as they are no longer Man and Wife.

Henry Tudor, King Henry VIII

Poor Catherine was told to move from place to place for the next couple years of her life.

By September 1531 she was residing in Enfield. While here, the following year 3 July 1533, Catherine was visited by Lord Mountjoy who told her that if she submits to Henry's wishes he will provide her, and Mary with an estate, but if she continues to refuse and fight Henry, things will turn badly for her, and their daughter. Catherine again refuses to stand down, this angered Henry and he orders she be sent to Bishop of Lincoln's Place, Buckden in Huntindonshire.

23 March 1534 Catherine was ordered to sign a new Act of Succession, this had removed Mary from the line - head over to -wednesdayshistory.blogspot.com/2020/04/mary-tudor.html- to read more about Mary's removal. Catherine once again refuses to sign this, which is an Act of Treason, and moves to Kimbolton Castle in fear of her and her daughters safety.

While here, she was attended by two of Henry's loyal subjects, Sir Edward Bedinfield and Sir Edward Chamberlain, they announced that while she resided there, she would have no visitors, other then those who have a special license by the King...

Catherine of Aragon

Catherine's final years would have been miserable, and lonely, even when she fell ill, Henry wouldn't let anyone visit her. Her Spanish Ambassador and friends begged, but each time he declined. It was only until December 1535, when Catherine was confined to bed with severe chest pains that Henry allowed Eustache Chapyus to visit her, but refused Mary to visit her...

Catherine sadly passed away on 7 January 1536, and was buried at Peterborough Abbey. Henry didn't attend the funeral, and it is unknown if he read the last letter Catherine wrote to him.

Some people speculate what killed Catherine, some say it was an unknown illness, some have claimed cancer, and some have even accused Anne Boleyn of poisoning her slowly over time - but if that was the case wouldn't have Henry done something sooner, considering how much he wanted her gone...?

Let me know what you think 

Thank you for reading

Until next time...

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Elizabeth Tudor - Elizabeth I of England

Elizabeth Tudor - Elizabeth I of England - Virgin Queen/Whore Queen

Elizabeth Tudor

Elizabeth Tudor was born at Greenwich Palace, London on 7 September 1533. Daughter to Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn, and was named after her Grandmother, Elizabeth Plantagent - Elizabeth of York. 

Elizabeth was christened in the Church of Franciscan Friars, Greenwich, London. Her Godparent's were Dowager Duchess of Norfolk, Dowager Marchioness of Dorset and Thomas Cranmer - Archbishop of Canterbury.

At just 3 months old, Elizabeth had been given her own Household - as this was common practice at the time - Elizabeth was escorted through the streets of London by her Great Uncle, to her new Home at Hatfield House, Hertfordshire. When Elizabeth was just 3 years old, Henry VIII ordered the be-heading of his Wife, her Mother, Anne Boleyn (on charges for adultery, and treason - which I will cover more off in Anne Boleyn's blog at a later date). 

Even though Elizabeth was next in line to the throne, she ended up being 3rd in line because of her Mothers death, making Elizabeth's birth illegitimate. And if that wasn't bad enough, her Mother and Fathers marriage was then deemed invalid - because of the adultery charges, and that meant Elizabeth was completely removed from the line of succession. Up until her Fathers death in 1547... As he had written in his will that Elizabeth is heir to the throne. 

Elizabeth I of England

Elizabeth was around 10 years old when her education started. She learnt French, Italian, Greek and Latin, she also received education for classical languages, history, rhetoric and moral philosophy - these type of lessons were normally reserved for the male heirs! 

A few speculated that Elizabeth hated her Mother - but then again, wouldn't you if you had lost your place in the line for the throne! 

But apparently, this wasn't at all true, as a few times, while posing for a portrait as a teenager, Elizabeth would wear her Mums "A" pendant - something Henry VIII would have been disgusted by if he had seen! She also wore a pendant in her later life with a picture of herself and her Mother inside. When Elizabeth became Queen of England, she promoted all her Mothers relatives to the best positions in court - maybe Elizabeth was truly a Mummy's Girl but couldn't express her love as her Father had taken that relationship away...

Elizabeth Tudor

Elizabeth never actually married -  for reasons that are unknown. Although, some did speculate that Elizabeth wasn't able to have Children, they even had people check her bed sheets to see if she "was ever bleeding"!!  Some speculated she was secretly a Man, and others believed that Elizabeth was in actual fact, attracted to Woman. 

Whatever the truth is, and whatever Elizabeth's reasons were, she chosen to never marry, and with doing so, birthed no Children - which was worrying back then as she would have had no rightful heirs to the throne. 

Robert Dudley - 1st Earl of Leicester

Rumours did start going around about Elizabeth, and her childhood friend Robert Dudley - 1st Earl of Leicester, and the 5th Son to John Dudley - Duke of Northumberland, and they also shared the same childhood Tutor, Roger Ascham. 

When Elizabeth and Robert were growing up, Elizabeth would confine to Robert quiet often, especially about her Mother, Anne Boleyn. 

Both Elizabeth and Robert remained very close through-out their Adulthood's, and even when Robert had married Amy Robsart, they still kept a strong bond, and sparked rumours by meeting up in private, at any costs. When Elizabeth was made Queen, the first thing she did was appoint Robert to be her Mother of Horse - meaning Robert was the only person who would be allowed to touch the Queen! 

And after just one year of Elizabeth reigning England, she moved Roberts bed chambers next to her private rooms - I can see why people speculated such ideas! 

Then, in 1587, a young Man, named Arthur Dudley appears at Phillip II's Court claiming he's the Son of Elizabeth Tudor and Robert Dudley - his date of birth is said to match up with their private meet ups - but there was no firm evidence to suggest such happenings of them birthing a Child. 

Although it is noted that, Elizabeth had 'fallen drastically unwell and had gained some weight' around the time that Arthur Dudley was said to be born - was this a secret birth, was it a case of a fake baby - just like when the Doctor said her Sister, Mary Tudor was pregnant, or was Elizabeth genuinely just unwell?

Robert Dudley tried everything he could to get his marriage with Elizabeth seen through, they exchanged letters for long periods of time, he bought her gifts upon gifts, but Elizabeth wouldn't cave into such temptations. And after about 10 years he finally given up.

Robert Dudley passed away on 4 September 1588 - something Elizabeth would be affected by for the rest of her life.

Robert Devereux - 2nd Earl of Essex 

Another rumoured 'affair' was with Robert Devereux - 2nd Earl of Essex and Son to Walter Devereux - 1st Earl of Essex, this began about 2 years after Robert Dudley had given up with the idea of marrying Elizabeth. Even though Robert was only 22 at the time, and Elizabeth being double his age, this didn't stop them from being close. They did everything together - including dancing with each during ceremonies and other such events. 

By 1587, Elizabeth made Robert her new Mother of Horse - which meant, Robert was now, the only person who was allowed to touch the Queen!

But sadly, Robert wasn't all that loyal to Elizabeth, as he had an affair, and a Son, named Walter Devereux with one of Elizabeth's attendants, Elizabeth Southwell - she  sent their Son to be raised by his Grandmother, Lettice Dudley. 

Elizabeth didn't know about Robert's disloyalty until June 1595, when she stumbled upon his will, where he had written about his Son. Elizabeth got very upset and was very angry towards Robert as she had no knowledge, or approval of this affair. 

Few years later, Robert begs Elizabeth for her forgiveness, to which she refused and condemned him to death, by execution in 1601.

Elizabeth Tudor

Other speculated romances with Elizabeth were, Phillip II of Spain, King Eric XIV of Sweden, Archduke Charles of Austria - Phillip's cousin, Henry - Duke of Anjou and his brother Francis - Duke of Anjou.

So, it's not really surprising she got given a cruel nickname. As these relationships, real or not, suggests Elizabeth did have a fair few to her name. 

Maybe she just liked the attention and people got the wrong idea of things, or maybe there is some truth to the nickname Whore Queen...?

But is that really a fair statement when she, by paper, never gotten married, and had birthed no Children, and as a result, was handed her second nickname, Virgin Queen...

Elizabeth I of England

Elizabeth Tudor was never actually meant to become a Queen - as you read earlier, but with both her Siblings, Edward and Mary Tudor, and her Father dead, Elizabeth was made Queen of England on 17 November 1558. And was crowned at Westminster Abbey, Carlisle on 15 January 1559. 

Elizabeth believed that 'beauty, amplifies power'. It would take her 4 hours to get dressed for occasions, and even though she worn beautiful vibrant dresses and jewels, her Female attendants on the other hand,were only allowed to wear black, this was so, no matter what room Elizabeth was in, and no matter how busy the crowds were, she would always stand out thus getting the Males attention she wanted and desired. 

Elizabeth also worn make up to 'restore youthfulness', her make-up consisted of painting her hands, neck and face with Venetian Ceruse - white lead and vinegar mixed. Elizabeth would also paint her Lips with a red paste - mixed with Beeswax and plant dye, and line her eyes with Kohl. 

The make up routine also could have been down to the fact, that Elizabeth didn't age well at all, and had black, rotten foul smelling mouth and teeth, was scarred by pox, and using Venetian Ceruse wouldn't have helped, as that was corrosive! 

While the Queens personal dressers were the only ones, allowed by Elizabeth, to see her without. Her former lover, Robert Devereux, snuck into her chambers one evening, and seen her with no make up on, he then joked about with his friends over her 'crooked carcass' - I'm not surprised she didn't accept his apology! 

Whore Queen or Virgin Queen?

Elizabeth Tudor was able to reign England for 45 years before her death. 

In March 1602, Elizabeth became very unwell, and her physical health deteriorated. By Autumn 1602, she had fallen into severe depression after loosing many family and friends. And on 24 March 1603, Richmond Palace, Elizabeth passed away. Her Coffin was carried to Westminster Abbey in a Hearse drawn by 4 Horses all drawn in velvet black. 

She was placed next to her Grandfather, Henry VII. But in 1606, Elizabeth was re-moved to the Henry VII Chapel, in the same vault as her Sister, Mary Tudor.

What do you think about Elizabeth's nicknames?
Let me know below.

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Mary Tudor - Mary I of England

Mary Tudor - Mary I of England - Bloody Mary.

England's 1st Female Monarch

Mary Tudor was born at Greenwich Palace, London on 18 February 1516. 

She was the only surviving daughter of Henry VIII and his wife Catherine of Aragon. She was christened as a Catholic at the Church of the Observant, Greenwich. Her Godparents were, Catherine of York, Countess of Devon, Anges Howard - Duchess of Norfolk and Cardinal Thomas Wolsey.

Mary's mother provided her with most of her education, and was very well educated in French, Greek, Latin and Spanish. Mary also became educated in dance and music. 

When Mary was aged just 1/2 years old, she was promised to Prince Francis III - Duke of Brittany, Son to King Francis I of France. This marriage never went forward, and the contract was repudiated 3 years later. Her father then contracted Mary, who was around 3/4 years old at the time, to marry Charles V - Holy Roman Emperor, Son to Phillip I of Castile, but a few years later, as advised by Thomas Wolsey - also Henry VIII's Chief Adviser - to cancel the wedding, Henry agreed. 

Francis III - Duke of Brittany

Thomas Wolsey then resumed negotiating marriages within France, mainly to declare the seal of the Treaty of London, which would make peace between the two countries, but Henry suggests Mary marries King Francis I.

A Treaty was then put into place, and signed stating Mary either marries King Francis I, or his Son, Henry - Duke of Orleans.

Charles V - Holy Roman Emperor

July 1520, aged just 4 and a half years old, Mary performed on the virginals - similar to a harpsichord, to entertain the visiting French delegation. 

Now aged around 6 years old, Mary and Charles V betrothed in the presence of the English Court, on 19 June 1522, this was to seal the Treaty of Windsor, which was an extension of the Treaty of Bruges, sealed in August of the previous year - a secret alliance between England and Spain, to set a date for the war with France. 

Around August 1524, Henry VIII began going over the idea of Mary marrying her cousin - James V of Scotland. By April the following year, Charles V demanded that Mary be sent to Spain with her share of the dowry in cash, to himself. Henry refused this order on the reason of not wanting to send Mary away before her 12th birthday - how noble of him! In June 1525, Charles released himself from the betrothal he had with Mary to find someone more 'fitting'.

James V of Scotland - Mary's Cousin

In 1526 there was a rearrangement in the household, and Mary, just 10 - and during this time it was only right Mary had her own place - so she was sent to Wales, and once there was titled Princess of Wales, she also visited Ludlow, to establish her own court in the welsh marches.

Mary I of England

Few years later, Henry wanted to divorce Mary's mother - which I will cover in another blog. During this time, Mary had a rough ride. She got dragged through court over a negotiation regarding peace with England and France, as well as another marriage idea! Mary also got treated like a bastard, people said her birth was illegitimate because Henry married his brothers wife, which probably didn't help her fathers own thinking, he believed Catherine didn't birth him a Son because he was being punished by God.
This was also around the time that Henry started his relationship with Anne Boleyn, who wasn't the kindest when it came to Mary, now her step-daughter. Anne also believed Mary was a bastard, and wanted Mary to admit this, as well as place Mary under Anne's birth, but she refused, this broke up the household and Mary was sent to Hatfield, Hertfordshire to act as Lady-In-Waiting to her younger Sister - Henry and Anne's secret daughter - Elizabeth Tudor.

Phillip of Spain II, Charles V Son

25 July 1554, at Winchester Cathedral, Hampshire Mary I of England married her cousins only child - Prince II of Spain.
Charles V upped his rank making himself Emperor Charles V, and made his son Phillip the crown of Naples, as well as his claim to the Kingdom of Jerusalem. This made Mary the Queen of Naples and the Queen of Jerusalem. Even though Phillip was King, every Parliament papers would be dated and signed in both there names, they would both attend hearings, Phillip would not be assisted by Mary's Army if he went to war, and he also could not act without Mary's consent. Even though he was unhappy with these agreements, and felt no passion towards Mary, he stuck by her side for "political and strategic" gain. Phillip couldn't speak English, so they spoke in French, Latin or Spanish - guess her education paid off in the end.
During the course of their marriage Mary became very unwell, mentally and physically

Mary I of England

In September 1554, Mary had become unwell and gained some weight, she visited her Doctor who declared her pregnant, however, no baby ever came. Then in 1558, Mary believed she was pregnant, but again, no baby arrived.
By October 1558, Mary's health had severely worsened and on 17 November 1558, aged 42 at St James Palace, Mary passed away. Some suggest ovarian cysts, others say uterine cancer.

So why was she nicknamed 'Bloody Mary of England'?
For the next 5 years Mary was to rule over England, and she was determined, along with proving her birth's legitimacy, she also wanted to restore England back to Catholicism. Those who refused to convert were burnt at the stake - at the time, this was the preferred execution method by the Catholic Spanish Inquisition. In total she burnt, 227 Men and 56 Women!
-
The second reason was during and after her marriage with Phillip. England said she had "married a foreigner" and frowned on the fact they were partially ruled by a "foreigner". Some point during the marriage, Phillip tells Mary to start a war with France, and as a result, ended up loosing the last possession England had over France, Calais.
After Mary passed, Phillip tried marrying her Sister - to which she refused. Phillip went back to Spain, got the Spanish Armada to invade England, and lost. Phillip then started to exaggerate Mary's execution's, those she burnt became martyr's, he even made the marriage sound worse then it was.
Mary became portrayed as evil.
And so began, the notorious Bloody Mary.

Personally, to me, she wasn't that evil. Yes she killed, but her father, when he reigned England killed at least 40,000 more people then his daughter...

What do you think?

Thank you for reading.

New blog coming soon.
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The Tudor period begins...

The Tudor period began when Henry Tudor took reign of England and Wales on 22 August 1485, after his battle with Richard Plantagent at the Battle of Bosworth Field. 

Henry VII

Henry VII was born at Pembroke Castle, Wales 28 January 1457, and was the only Son to Lady Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond, and the only Son to Edmund Tudor, 1st Earl Of Richmond, who sadly passed 3-6 Months before Henry VII was born - we will come back to his untimely death later.

There is little to be known about Henry VII and his childhood, but what we do know is, his Uncle, Jasper Tudor, looked after him and brought him up as his Mother was only 13 when he was born - she then went on to marry another 2 times before passing from "eating a cygnet" on 29 June 1509. Henry VII didn't see much of his Mother in his early years as Lord Herbert seized Pembroke Castle in 1461 - and so Edward IV became the new King.

At the age of 14, Henry VII had fled to Burgundy, for his own safety, as both Henry VI and his only Son, Prince Edward had passed, making Henry VII the main Lancastrian to take the throne. But it wasn't an easy ride for him, he would have to endure a troublesome fight before getting the throne.
Henry VII's host while in France was Francis II, Duke Of Brittany. Edward offered Francis a substantial reward for Henry VII, but Francis denied any exchanges and instead told Edward that he would keep guard of Henry VII and his Uncle Jasper, so they couldn't escape or return to England. Francis II was playing a dangerous game at the time, siding with whom Edward IV once thought was the enemy. 

In time, Henry VII was due to travel back over to England to supposedly marry one of Edward's daughters, but Henry ended up becoming unwell before the journey and was sent to sanctuary with his Uncle Jasper instead, to which Edward made no further effort in getting Henry back to England.

Skip a little and we enter the year 1483, while Henry and his Uncle Jasper were in sanctuary, Edward IV suddenly passes on 9 April, his Son, Edward V never got the throne - even though it was rightly his -  instead, Richard Duke of Gloucester, proclaimed himself King.
Even though Richard had a lot of supporters, making himself King made him gain enemies, fast. And England believed the rightful heir to the throne be Henry VII. With all this going on, Edward IV's widow, Elizabeth Woodville, caught wind of this and wanted Henry to marry her only surviving Daughter. But Richard III didn't like the sound of that, so he also decided, that he would marry Elizabeth's daughter - only because it would have made Henry VII look weak. And on Christmas Day of the year 1483, Henry made a public declaration that, if he can take the throne from Richard, he will marry Elizabeth's daughter.

Once again, Henry and his Uncle Jasper flee for their safety as Richard took all of Henry's Mothers property and was plotting against Henry. Two years later they would return to Wales and on 22 August 1485 the Battle of Bosworth Fields begin. By this time Henry had gathered 5,000 men while Richard had gathered 8,000. Not much is to be known about this Battle, but one thing is for certain, Richard III passed and Henry VII became King.

Richard III

Henry Tudor did end up marrying Elizabeth Woodville's daughter, Elizabeth of York - daughter of Edward IV - on 18th January 1486. Putting an end to The War Of Roses, and put a start to a brand new period - The Tudor Period which would be here for the next 118 years.

Now lets take a little look into Henry VII's Family

Mother

Lady Margaret Beaufort, Countess of Richmond

Margaret was born at Bletsoe Castle, Bedfordshire 31 May 1443.
She was first married in 1450 to John de la Pope, it was a contracted marriage between the Family, this only lasted until 1453. Margaret was very young during this marriage, and some people believe it didn't happen as there isn't many records to show this, but records do show that John de la Pope was in fact Margaret's 3rd cousin - this marriage bore no Children.
Her second marriage was in 1455 to Edmund Tudor. Margaret was only 12 at the time. This marriage lasted until Edmond's untimely death in 1456 - this marriage bored one Child, Henry VII.
Margaret's third marriage was to Henry Stafford in 1461. He is believed to have been Margaret's 2nd cousin, and also the 1st cousin to Edward IV. This marriage lasted until 1471 when Henry sadly passed - this marriage bore no Children.
Her final marriage was in 1472 to Thomas Stanley, Margaret would have been about 40 at this time, and this marriage ended in 1504 when Thomas passed - this marriage bore no Children.
When her Son reigned England and Wales, he would go to his Mother a lot for advice on how to rule the country, and she did everything she could to help, she even wrote a Book titled "Book of the Royal Household" and this determined how State and private occasions should be performed. During her Son's reign, Margaret would be addressed as "My Lady the Kings Mother". Margaret also founded Christ's College and made frequent gifts to local Churches and monasteries.
Margaret, passed away peacefully in her Bed on 29 June 1509 - just three Months after her only Son.
Margaret was laid to rest at the Henry VII Chapel in Westminster Abbey, in a black marble tomb with bronze gilded effigy.

Father

Edmund Tudor, 1st Earl of Richmond

Edmund was born at Royal Manor of Hadham, Hertfordshire, England on 11 June 1430. In his later life, he became known as Earl Of Richmond. And its widely known that Henry VI was Edmund's half brother.
Edmund only married the one time, to Lady Margaret Beaufort. This could have been due to his untimely death. At some point during Lady Margaret's pregnancy with Henry VII, Edmund had been tasked with preventing an overthrow being plotted against Henry VI. Sadly, he was unable to stop this, and he ended up being captured in mid 1456 by William Herbert, a Yorkist supporter, who imprisoned Edmund at Camarthen Castle, South Wales.
Edmund died while in Camarthen Castle, 1 November 1456, 3-6 Months before his Son was born.
Some believe that Edmund passed because of the Bubonic Plague (which I will cover in another blog), others disagree and state that Edmund was murdered. Several Months later, the accused stood in Court and none of the parties were ever found guilty.
Edmund was buried at the Carmarthen Grey Friars, but sadly because of dissolution of the monasteries, he was re-moved to the Choir of St David's Cathedral in 1539.

Wife

Elizabeth Plantagent, Elizabeth of York

Elizabeth was born at the Palace of Westminster on 11 February 1466. She married Henry VII on 18 January 1486, and birthed him 8 Children, 4 of which sadly passed - which you will find out later on in this blog.
Elizabeth sadly passed away, through complications of her last birth, on 11 February 1503 and was buried in Westminster Abbey on 24 February 1503.

Son

Arthur Tudor, Prince of Wales

Arthur was born in St Swithuns Priory, Winchester on 20 September 1486. Arthur was christened and his Godparents were John de Vere, William FitzAlan, Elizabeth Woodville and Cecily of York. Just like his Father, little is known about Author's childhood.
Arthur only married the one time, to the well known Catherine of Aragon, on 14 November 1501, their marriage birthed no Children. They resided in Ludlow Castle, Wales. During their marriage, in March 1502, they both became unwell from an unknown illness. While Catherine recovered from this illness, Arthur sadly didn't, he passed on 2 April 1502 at his Home, 6 months before his 16th birthday.
On 8 April 1502, a general procession took place, on the same night a dirge was sung at St Paul's Cathedral and every Parish in London. His body was carried to Parish Church of Ludlow, Wales on 23 April 1502.
Finally, on 25 April 1502, Arthur was taken to Worcester Cathedral in a "special wagon, upholstered in black and drawn by 6 horses". And in 1504 a Chantry was erected above his grave.

Daughter

Margaret Tudor, Queen of Scotland

Margaret was born at the Palace of Westminster on 18 November 1489, she was named after her Grandmother - Margaret Beaufort. Just like Arthur, Margaret was also christened, her Godparents were Lady Berkeley Duchess of Norfolk, Earl of Shrewsbury and her Grandmother Margaret Beaufort.
Margaret had three marriages in her lifetime, and in total birthed 7 children most of which sadly passed.
Her first marriage was to King James IV, they had a proxy wedding on 25 January 1502 at Richmond Palace, but the actual wedding ceremony wasn't until 8 August 1503. Margaret gave birth to their first Son, Prince James on 21 February 1507 at Holyrood Palace Edinburgh, but he sadly passed at Stirling Castle, Scotland 27 February 1508. On 15 July 1508, Margaret gave birth to her first daughter, who sadly passed hours after.
Margaret gave birth to her second Son, Prince Arthur at Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh on 20 October 1509, and was styled Duke of Albany, this was shortly lived as he sadly passed at Edinburgh Castle on 14 July 1510.
Margaret birthed her third Son, Prince James V at Linlithgow Palace on 10 April 1512 and was styled Duke of Rothesay. In November 1512, Margaret birthed a second daughter, and like her Sister, sadly passed hours after.
King James IV died during the Battle of Flodden Field on 9 September 1513, and he sadly never met his Son, Prince Alexander, who Margaret birthed at Stirling Castle, Scotland on 30 April 1514 and was very quickly styled as Duke of Ross.
Margaret then went on to marry Archibold Douglas, Earl of Angus, their first wedding was done in secret at Kinnol Church on 6 August 1514. The reason it was done in secret was because King James IV put down in his will that if Margaret Tudor was to ever re-marry after himself she would loose regancy of their Son, Prince James V. Unfortunately, their marriage got made public in late August, Margaret lost regancy and fled to England where she birthed their first Daughter, Margaret Douglas on 8 October 1515.
Prince Alexander sadly passed at Striling Castle, Scotland on 18 December 1515. When Margaret heard of this news, she went back to Scotland, once there Margaret learned she could only see Prince James V under strict conditions, and also learnt, that Margaret will get full regancy of Prince James V as long as she divorces Archibold Douglas, Margaret begged for the divorce and it finally happened on 11 March 1527!
 Her third, and final marriage was on 8 March 1528 to Henry Stewart. Prince James V was now King James V and he appointed Henry as Lord Methven. This marriage birthed no Children, and it lasted until Margaret passed from a stroke at Methvan Castle and was buried in Cathusian Abbey in Perth on 18 October 1541.

Son

Henry VIII, King Henry VIII

Henry VIII was born at Greenwich Palace, London on 28 June 1491. He too was christened - Godparents unknown, or none chosen. There is so many interesting things that Henry VIII did as a child, and out of respect and my passion for the guy, I'll be making a blog on him alone. 

Henry VIII had 6 marriages in total, but did not kill all his Wives. 

His first marriage was to Catherine of Aragon on 11 June 1509 at Greenwich Palace, and they were crowned King and Queen on 24 June 1509 at Westminster Abbey. Sadly, on 31 January 1510, Catherine had a still born, her first Daughter. 

1 January 1511, Catherine gave birth to their first Son, Henry, who was christened, but sadly passed 22 February 1511 and was buried at Westminster Abbey. 

Margaret birthed their second Son on 17 September 1513, but he sadly passed shortly after. And again, on 8 January 1515 Margaret birthed their third Son but he also passed shortly after. 

Finally on 18 February 1516 Margaret birthed their second Daughter. Mary, at Greenwich Palace, London. Sadly, on 10 November 1518 Margaret birthed a baby girl who became very weak and unwell and sadly passed hours after, so much went on during this marriage before his second, I will have to make a separate blog about it.

January 1533, Henry VIII married Anne Boleyn, I will also go into these marriages in more detail in their own blog as a lot of stuff went on! Anne Boleyn was pregnant, so they got married in secret so Henry VIII would have legitimacy over their Child. On 7 September Anne birthed her first Daughter - Henry wanted a boy. In June or July of the year 1534 Anne had a secret birth and sadly the baby was still born. 

June 1536 Anne again, had a secret birth, this time the baby was premature and sadly passed at birth. January 29 1536 brought even more heartache, as Anne had a miscarriage. Henry had had enough of her "inept behaviour" falsely accused Anne of wanting him dead and she was beheaded on 19 May 1536. 

Henry didn't wait around long, by 20 May 1536 he got engaged to Jane Seymour and had married her the next day. Jane did birth a Child with Henry, a Son in fact, named Edward Duke of Cornwall. Only 3 years after the birth of her Son, Jane sadly got puerpal fever and passed on 24 October 1537.

By 6 January 1540 Henry VIII had married Anne of Cleves at the Greenwich Palace, London. Henry was never keen on Anne, and through-out there marriage had grown feelings for Katherine Howard. Anne realised this and filed for divorce - told you he didn't kill all his wives!

28 July 1540 marked Henry VIII's fifth marriage, and it was with Katherine Howard. However, Katherine became very unfaithful to Henry, so he be-headed her on 13 February 1542. 

His last marriage was with Catherine Parr in July 1543.

Over his lifetime Henry VIII had become very unwell in his legs, had pains and was also obese, and on 28 January 1547, at Whitehall Palace, Henry VIII passed away, and is laid to rest on 16 February next to Jane Seymour in St George's Chapel.

Elizabeth Tudor, 2 July 1447 - 14 September 1495.

Daughter

Mary Tudor, Queen of France.

Mary was born at Richmond Palace, England on 10 March 1496. Mary had two marriages in her lifetime and birthed 4 children, sadly none survived. 

Mary's first marriage was with Louis XII of France at Abbevill Castle, he was much older then Mary and she did refuse to marry him at first, he later passed on 1 January 1515. 

On 3 March 1515, Marry married Charles Brandon at the Chapel in the Palais de Cluny Paris. Mary gave birth to their first Son, Henry on 11 March 1516, and in 1522 sadly passed. On 16 July 1517, Mary gave birth to her first Daughter, Lady Frances Brandon, who had one marriage which she birthed a Daughter, Lady Jane Grey, Frances passed 20 November 1559. 

In 1519, Mary births her second Daughter, Lady Eleanor Brandon, she also had one marriage in her lifetime, birthed no Children and passed on 27 September 1547. 

Mary then gives birth to her second Son, and last child, Henry in 1523, sadly in March 1534 Henry passes away.

A year before the passing of Henry, Mary herself became very unwell, and never recovered. Mary passed 25 June 1533. 

On 22 July 1533 Mary was buried at Abbey of Bury St Edmonds's. And like her Father, dissolution of the monasteries, Mary's body was re-moved to St Mary's Church in 1538.

Edward Tudor, 1408 - 1499

Edmund Tudor, Duke of Somerset, 21 February 1499 - 19 June 1500

Katherine Tudor, 2 February 1503 - 10 February 1503. 

Henry VII, in fairness, had a pretty big Family, even though their was many deaths during child birth, the ones that did survive became Kings and Queens and I reckon Henry VII and his Wife Elizabeth would have been proud of their Family.

Let me know what you think about Edmund Tudor's death, was it the buponic plague or was it murder?

Thank you for reading

Until next time 

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