Tudors

From 1558–1603 Elizabeth I wielded the scepter over England and Ireland. After many years of conflict, her reign was one of relative peace. A determined redhead like her father, she often referred to herself as the “Lion’s Cub”.

The Tudor Dynasty was a time of change in England in its nearly two-century reign. Learn about the 15 Rulers Who Defined the Tudor Dynasty.

We all know King Henry VIII as a ruthless tyrant who didn’t hesitate to execute those who displeased him—including two of his six wives. But when it comes to how he ruled as King, Henry was a more capable statesman than we give him credit for.

When Henry VIII finally met Anne of Cleves, he claimed she was unthinkably ugly—but modern historians suggest a more disturbing reason for his disgust.

Only one woman was devious enough to outlast the notorious King Henry VIII—and that was the utterly scandalous Catherine Parr.

Elizabeth I may have had many ladies-in-waiting in her royal court, but she only trusted Bess of Hardwick to do her dirty work.