Tudor Dynastic Problems: 1460-1571

This book provides a detailed history and analysis of Tudor dynastic problems, comparing the attitudes of the three great Tudors and supplemented by documents providing contemporary evidence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 190 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Originally published in 1973, this comprehensive book delves into a detailed historical account and comprehensive analysis of Tudor dynastic challenges, spanning from 1460, when Richard of York laid claim to the crown, to 1571, when Elizabeth I's Second Treasons Act solidified parliamentary statute as the primary means to resolve succession disputes. The book meticulously explores each significant development, offering a comparative examination of the dynastic attitudes of the three remarkable Tudors, which holds immense significance in assessing these monarchs. Furthermore, the study is enriched by an array of documents, several of which were previously unpublished, providing the reader with contemporary evidence to aid in forming their own conclusions.

The Tudor dynasty, which ruled England from 1485 to 1603, was marked by significant political and social upheaval. The reign of Henry VII, the first Tudor king, saw the consolidation of the English monarchy and the establishment of a strong central government. However, the subsequent reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I were characterized by religious turmoil, political instability, and economic challenges.

Henry VIII's desire to divorce his first wife, Catherine of Aragon, and marry Anne Boleyn led to the English Reformation, a religious revolution that split the Church of England from the Roman Catholic Church. This event had far-reaching consequences for English society, as it led to the establishment of the Church of England as a separate religious entity and the persecution of Catholics.

Edward VI's reign was marked by religious conservatism and the persecution of Protestants. He was succeeded by Mary I, who reversed many of Edward's reforms and reintroduced Catholicism as the official religion of England. Mary's reign was also marked by political instability, as she faced opposition from both religious conservatives and secular leaders.

The Tudor dynasty was also characterized by significant social changes. During the reign of Henry VIII, the English economy experienced significant growth, as the country's trade and industry expanded. This period also saw the rise of the middle class and the development of a more centralized government. However, the reign of Mary I was marked by economic decline, as the country was plunged into a series of wars with France and Spain, which resulted in significant economic damage.

In conclusion, the Tudor dynasty was a period of significant political, social, and religious upheaval in English history. The reigns of Henry VIII, Edward VI, and Mary I were marked by religious turmoil, political instability, and economic challenges, which had far-reaching consequences for English society. The dynasty was also characterized by significant social changes, including the rise of the middle class and the development of a more centralized government.

Weight: 360g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032037721