Henry VII

Henry VII, born on 28 January 1457 at Pembroke Castle, was the son of Edmund Tudor and Lady Margaret Beaufort. His father died before his birth, and he was raised by his uncle Jasper Tudor. During his early years, Henry's family was involved in the Wars of the Roses, a series of civil wars between the Lancastrians and Yorkists.

After the Yorkist victory in 1471, Henry spent 14 years in exile in Brittany. He returned to England in 1485 with support from France and Scotland, defeating Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth Field. This victory marked the end of the Wars of the Roses and established Henry as the first monarch of the House of Tudor.

Henry VII married Elizabeth of York in 1486, uniting the warring houses of Lancaster and York. His reign focused on restoring stability and strengthening the monarchy. He implemented administrative, economic, and diplomatic reforms, including supporting the wool industry and introducing new taxes.

Henry faced several rebellions during his reign, including those led by Lambert Simnel and Perkin Warbeck. He successfully quelled these uprisings, consolidating his power and securing his dynasty. His policies aimed at reducing the power of the nobility and increasing royal authority.

Throughout his reign, Henry VII was known for his attention to detail and cautious financial management. He avoided lavish spending and focused on raising revenues, which helped stabilize the government's finances. However, a commission after his death found abuses in the tax collection process.

Henry VII's reign lasted nearly 24 years, during which he was able to maintain peace and order in England. He was succeeded by his son, Henry VIII, who continued the Tudor dynasty. Henry's efforts laid the foundation for a more centralized and powerful monarchy.

Henry VII died on 21 April 1509 at the age of 52 and was buried at Westminster Abbey. He was succeeded by his son, Henry VIII.