House of Tudor
The House of Tudor was a royal dynasty that ruled England from 1485 to 1603. This period, known as the Tudor period, was marked by significant cultural, political, and religious changes in England.
Foundation
The dynasty was founded by Henry VII, who won the Battle of Bosworth Field in 1485, ending the Wars of the Roses. By defeating Richard III, Henry VII united the houses of Lancaster and York through his marriage to Elizabeth of York.
Key Figures
- Henry VII (r. 1485-1509): Established the Tudor dynasty, focused on financial stability, and strengthened the monarchy.
- Henry VIII (r. 1509-1547): Famous for his six marriages, the English Reformation, and the establishment of the Church of England.
- Edward VI (r. 1547-1553): Son of Henry VIII, his reign saw further Protestant reforms.
- Lady Jane Grey (r. 1553): Briefly proclaimed queen for nine days after Edward VI's death.
- Mary I (r. 1553-1558): Attempted to restore Catholicism, leading to her nickname "Bloody Mary."
- Elizabeth I (r. 1558-1603): Known as the "Virgin Queen," her reign saw England become a major world power, with the defeat of the Spanish Armada in 1588 being a highlight.
Significant Events and Changes
- Reformation: The English Reformation was initiated by Henry VIII to annul his marriage to Catherine of Aragon, leading to the establishment of the Church of England.
- Exploration and Colonization: The Tudor era saw the beginnings of English exploration and colonization, with figures like Sir Walter Raleigh and Sir Francis Drake playing key roles.
- Cultural Renaissance: There was a cultural flourishing, often referred to as the English Renaissance, with literature, theater, and the arts thriving, particularly during the reign of Elizabeth I.
- Political and Religious Turmoil: The religious back-and-forth between Catholicism and Protestantism caused considerable upheaval, including the Marian persecutions under Mary I and the subsequent Elizabethan Religious Settlement.
End of the Dynasty
The Tudor dynasty ended with the death of Elizabeth I in 1603. She had no direct heirs, leading to the succession of her cousin, James I of Scotland, who became the first monarch of the House of Stuart, thus uniting the crowns of Scotland and England.
Sources
Related Topics