Jane Seymour

Jane Seymour, born around 1508, was the third wife of King Henry VIII and Queen of England from their marriage on 30 May 1536 until her death in 1537. Her marriage followed the execution of Henry’s second wife, Anne Boleyn. Jane died of postnatal complications less than two weeks after the birth of her son, the future King Edward VI. She was the only one of Henry’s wives to receive a queen’s funeral and was later buried alongside him at St. George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle. Born to Sir John Seymour and Margery Wentworth, Jane’s education was not as extensive as her predecessors’, focusing more on household management and needlework. She served as a maid-of-honour to Queen Catherine and Queen Anne. Jane’s gentle nature earned her the nickname ‘the Pacific’ and she was known for her peacemaking efforts at court. Henry VIII betrothed Jane the day after Anne Boleyn’s execution, and their marriage saw a return to strict decorum at court. Jane was conservative in her political views and is remembered for her efforts to reconcile Henry with his daughter Mary.