The Tudor dynasty ruled England from 1485 to 1603. Its reigns brought changes to monarchy, religion and government, dynastic conflict, exploration and overseas expansion. The pages below cover the Tudor monarchs, their courts and the political, religious and social changes of the period.
The Tudor Monarchs
The dynasty began with Henry VII, whose victory at Bosworth established Tudor rule. His successors faced religious upheaval, challenges to royal authority and changing relationships with Europe.
Dynasty, Succession and the Royal Court
The Tudor dynasty emerged from the Wars of the Roses. Securing the succession remained important to the early Tudor monarchs, while marriage, patronage and faction shaped political life at court.
- The Wars of the Roses
- The Battle of Bosworth Field
- The Battle of Stoke Field
- Margaret Beaufort
- Lambert Simnel
- Anne Boleyn
- Mary Boleyn
Religion and the Reformation
The break with Rome under Henry VIII transformed the relationship between church and state. The dissolution of religious houses and subsequent changes in religious policy brought upheaval and persecution under successive monarchs.
War and Foreign Relations
Tudor England faced dynastic challenges, conflict with Scotland and rivalry with European powers. Naval strength became increasingly important, particularly during the later sixteenth century.
Exploration and Overseas Expansion
Voyages across the Atlantic opened new possibilities for trade and colonisation, while increasing competition and conflict between European powers.
Society and Culture
Tudor society was shaped by changes in wealth, poverty, education and culture. Elizabethan legislation also established a more systematic response to poverty.
The Elizabethan Era
Elizabeth I’s reign has its own section covering religious settlement, political challenges, plots and rebellions, relations with Spain and the wider society of the period.